Waylay-Management-2

Let's see if tumblr murders this one

[waylay-managment-2]

HELLO EVERYONE WELCOME BACK TO ROUND TWO!!!

As you might have noticed, Tumblr has nuked my first blog, and hates my guts; but we persevere! Step one to winning a war is to keep going when you lose the battles!

Feel free to start your stories at any point: I know switching to a new blog midway through a conversation could be jarring!

Rules

No sexual content

Add trigger warnings to posts that need them (with suicide, gore, ED’s, etc)

Flirting is okay, just don’t take it to far (yes Prince, you’re okay)

don’t start rp with other people unless they seem fine with it! I know it can be hard to tell with anon but try not to interrupt like, the introduction.

you don’t need to have a character to interact, but I would recommend it if you want to make a story. I totally understand the appeal of random shitposts with no cohesion and you can be the anon that makes them

OC’s are loved

Other fandoms are welcome

Fanart is appreciated!!!! I love it!!!!!

discord if you want to join!

characters

played by me

The Manager (reinstated!)

Lilith 🦉

Casper Davis 🔖 (waiter)

Daisy May ⚕️(doctor)

Oliver Abara 🍹 (bartender)

Penelope Markos 🥘 (chef)

Gracelyn White 📖 (Patron)

normal patrons

Cowboy (Jackson) 🤠

Wife guy

Francis

Abbey

Gin

Entity 0

Entity 1

DG

Mira

Orchid

Talus

Alice H

Elizabeth

Lavi

Gnute

A freak

Doughael

Lumi

Adam

Waylay 🏠

Paige Turner 📃

Cam

Iris 🎨

Penny 🎀

Abraham ♠️

Stella 🌠

Alice H

Orion 🦜

Nix ❄️

Lucia 🐸

Bill rose 🌹

Abbigail Prinn 👁️‍🗨️

Twelve-eyed shadow monster 👀

Anthony 🎷

Faroe and Jane 🛁

Orchestra!Arthur and John 🎼

Elle ☄️

A ✨

Caleb Whitely 👑

Host ™️

Clarence 🪲

Mr. Campbell 🩶

Candy 🍬

Nova Nyarl

Novacane

Ghost Kayne

Nyarlathotep 🦑

Brahm and Lilith 🧑‍🧒

Goldie 💛

Emcee 🎤

Vixen 🦊

Kiersten 🏹

John (@kingundone)

Darkthur (my beloved) 🔪

Bella 🧵

Knave 🃏

Prince Percival “Friday”

Stolin ⌚️

The Poet ✒️

Daisy Lilith 🪶

Daisy Kayne 🌼

Space blob 💫

Reid ⏳

Willow 🩸

Ant and cricket 🐜 & 🦗

Cube Salesman 🧊

Juice man 🧃 🎩

Juice man’s freind 💧

Mander 📼

Lux 🍂

Sage Black “spots” 🐆

Ophelia 🍄‍🟫

Najma Harb 🪻

Valentine 💖

[NO NAME YET] 🧸

[NO NAME YET] 🌲

Mason and Mischief 🌲 &⚕️

[NO NAME YET] ⛈️ 🐉

[NO NAME YET] 🎷 🐀

[NO NAME YET] 🪴

[NO NAME YET] 🔆

Evelyn 🏔️

Cloud 🌧️

Little lamb and whisper 🦐

Vani 📘

Frankenstein 💚

Merlot 🍷

Wanda ⏱️

[NO NAME YET] 🐦

Seven 🪙 🐍

Asphodel ⛓️ 🪻

Tallin 🐺 🩸

Rory ⚙️

Subject Alpha 🧪

Gale 🪽 🌒

Candy 🍭

Edward ♟️

Scratch 🦇

The Purple stranger 🌂 🟪

Odette Flume 🍵

Idris ⚠️

Esther 🖍️

Seth 🚪

The Progeny 🐍

Rowan Linh 🐈‍⬛

William/Vanity🪽

Caspian and Kit 👁️ & ☀️

Rita Velásquez 🍸

Blank and Beau 📺 🦎

Alastor and Natalie 🕊️ 🐇

Cleo 🌙

Raelynn ⚔️

C.A.R.A. 💡

The circus 🎪

Clareense 🤡

Yhoundeh my beloved 𐂂

more I missed???? Sorry I love you all but there’s so many of you

Nightvale patrons

Cecil 💜

Magnus Patrons

Jon 👁️

Tim 💥

Sasha 🎞️

Martin ☁️

Jonah 🧿

Peter 🌫️

Will 💭

Randal 🧃

Micheal distortion 🌀

Gerry 🗝️

Agnus 🔥

Jack ❤️‍🔥

Alma Swallow 🪏

Harper Halloway 🥩

more??????

Genshin 1920’s AU (just… don’t ask…)

Diluc 🦅

In stars and time

Loop 🎻

Camp Here and There

Tony/Tony 🍝

Jedidiah 🕰️

Penumbra Podcast

Slip Jackson 💊 ⚙️

Sarah Wire “Director W” 🕶️

Homestuck… for some reason… because I’ve lost control

Caliborn ⛎

Station 404

Troy 🔨

Em 📻

The Mechanisms

Toy Soldier 🚂

Pony D’Ville @pony-dville

Fnaf I guess?????

Papaya 👾

Forsaken? Whatever that is?

007n7 🍔

Chance 7️⃣

Patrons that have moved on to the dark world

Yves Linmann 🍺 (not on this blog, but he still needs recognition)

[waylay-managment-2]

Finally home... *Longest week of my life, if only because of how stressed I was. Selena walks behind me, limping on her twisted leg, and JJ sleeps in my pocket while I walk up to dad* Dad? Finally back.

*They find him and start beaming.*

“Jackson! Welcome back!”

*they wrapped him in a hug then looked to Selena.*

“Ah, hello. Are you alright?”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Hey dad! *I hug him back, glad to be home. A week out seems to have really helped my thoughts*

This pretty girl is Selena *I pick her up, inviting her to start picking my face* Her back leg is twisted, Whenever Daisy has time, I'm gonna take her in and ask Daisy to amputate it. I wanna take her back out with me.

*I was not expecting to get so attached to her so fast. When did that happen?*

[waylay-managment-2]

“Well it must be causing her pain, we should do that now.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Alright. We can talk while Daisy operates. *I hold Selena. She's looking around eagerly, panting. I've never met a coyote who not only sociable, but near domesticated! Good girl* Did anything happen while I was out?

[waylay-managment-2]

“Well! Um… yes. A you get version of you showed up. And realized that you call me dad in the future. So… I apologize for any lies you may have been told as a child about death, and that was me.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*A lot of things now make sense. They're hazyer memories, before my powers made it impossible to truly forget anything... of people I know and love in the Waylay.*

"...I think that's the reason why I knew this place would be safe. Why I knew that I could come here, even if it was just for a day."

"...Am I still here?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Yes. You are.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Okay so we need to drop Selena off with Daisy... and fix that. *I frown at Selena. I planned on being with her during it, but this is a much more pressing issue.*

[waylay-managment-2]

“I’ll be with her. You go find him.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

"come with me? Say goodbye to him?"

*It still makes my chest tight thinking of asking for support, the last time I looked at my father like this... I couldn't even see him due to the rods in my eyes.*

*I need him just as much now.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled and nodded, putting a hand on Jackson’s shoulder.*

“Okay.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I guess we're finding him- me, first? I ain't sure where he is. I can't... sense him the way I do Seth.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Then let’s go. I can find him.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*I feel... nervous.* sounds good to me. *I let Selena down on the ground, her staying at my side.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they gently led him to where Jackie was playing.*

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*I crouch down next to him, tapping his should to distract from the small wood carving he's clearly focusing on* Well Howdy there little vaquero... seems yer a long way off from home. Are you ready to say goodbye?

*The younger me looks up, copper meeting silver. He clearly has questions I probably can't answer, but it's going to be part of his life.* "I'm saying goodbye?"

*I pick him up almost the same way I held Selena.* Tell the nice Manager bye, and thank them for letting you stay here, okay? We've got manners afterall.

[waylay-managment-2]

*The Manager patted Jackie’s head.*

“I know it’s sudden, but we’ve gotta send you home now. Back to your dad, okay?”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*Jackie holds his arms out for a hug. Even at six years old I knew he was someone safe.* "Please?"

"...It's going to be twelve years for him before he can come back." *I am starting to feel the ache growing. I could tell him so much. I could warn him of that night. I could tell him where our mother is. I could try and fix things*

[waylay-managment-2]

*The Manager squeezed Jackson’s hand and led Jackie to hug them both, whispering to Jackson.*

“Don’t.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

"Let's just get him back." *I brwak from the hug, Jackies hands untangling from The Managers neck with a small wave. Pa is gonna wonder how his clothes and hair are suddenly freshly cleaned.*

"I bet you don't really got a grasp on how to leave, do you?" *He nods back at me, while I place my hand on a door in the wall. I door I never thought to question before. A door that no one else seemed to ever notice. I set him down, crouching next to Jackie and guiding him.* "You gotta put your hand on the knob, and think hard about where you wanna go. Think about pa, and the horses, imagine them clearly. Do ya got it?"

*His eyes are screwed shut in deep concentration, brows furrowed with effort. It feels narcissistic to think I was a cute kid, but I also just like kids, so I'll chalk it up to that.* "I got it."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Good. Now all you have to do it go through.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*He opens the door. On the other side... I see him. Standing there, looking at a fire. Pepper is even there, laying down on the ground to rest. Jackie turns to me, holding out... a bug.* "Will you take care of Mister Harry? He isn't supposed to be there..."

*I want to call out. I want to hug my father, cry in his arms, apologize. Tell him I love him... But I'm not supposed to be there. What good would it do, the try and change any of this? If i told my father of his death, he'd smile and ask if I was alright. If I told Jackie of what's to come... no child should have to bear that burden.*

*I take Harry.* "We'll keep him safe here. And... don't be afraid. A lot of people here are going to be waiting for you, and they love you so much more than you'll ever be able to fathom, and then some. You'll be okay." *My voice cracks on the last syllable, while Jackie turns and leaves. I shouldn't watch, I know what it will do to my heart... But I can't look away as I see my father pick him up, a confused but gentle smile on his face. I really look nothing like him. But those eyes are the same, no doubt about it.*

*I shut the door, and hug the father that stands behind me.* "I almost went. I'll never see him again"

[waylay-managment-2]

*they wrap you in their arms, holding you tightly.*

“He’s with you. Everywhere you go. A part of him follows.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I could have said something. I could have tried to stop it... But it wouldn't have changed anything... I know it wouldn't. But I couldn't even try.

How did you look into his eyes? Knowing everything that'll happen? How did you stop yourself?

*my head is fully pressed into their neck, sobbing with the grief that never leaves. That always is there, living inside every memory*

[waylay-managment-2]

“By knowing that in the end, you’ll have a family, and a doctor, and people who will always keep you safe no matter what. And also, apparently a pet coyote.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Don't forget the squirrel and horse.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Exactly. Or your friends who are literally an entire fucking fire army.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I uh... would you call me and Amber friends? I figured she'd be pretty satisfied not seeing me ever again.

*I pick Selena back up after pulling away, the levity helping pick me back up* Speaking of... we got a doctor to see. Why is it that every time I come home I either cry, see Daisy, or both?

[waylay-managment-2]

“Because everyone does.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Sounds about right. And uh, you'll be glad to know the new leg works great.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled.*

“I’m glad. Where’s Angie?”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

outside already. She's all tied up with Luci's new horse, Vespera.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Lucifer? Really? Well I’m so glad you made friends!”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

..You forgot I was kidnapping him, I take it?

He's... I think he's starting to figure it out, or at least is finally thinking for himself. If Sparrow doesn't have him as a puppet... then maybe we have a chance for Candy. A real one, where everyone is happy.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled.*

“Of course. And no, I didn’t forget. I’m just happy he’s okay.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

...I wouldn't say that. Our first night out I ended up on the trail of a vampire. Things went south and... Luci was the one that staked the man.

He's just a kid, but he's the same age I was when I was left alone. I had come to terms with death, with being a part of that cycle so others could live... but he had to learn it brutally.

Hell I'm starting to question how pa raised me. Where is the difference between Sparrow and him?

[waylay-managment-2]

“Sparrow did what she did to raise the dead and become their god. She did what she did out of a wretched grief that turned her into a monster.

“Your father did everything he did out of pure love.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

But he also did it out of the same duty I carry now. He taught me to bear the weight of my powers, by being a servant to others. I didn't just hunt Vampires, I was a skilled marksman by the time I was ten, taking on my own creatures and putting myself in that line.

Daisy told me I need to start letting people solve their own issues, to only help those I can actually help instead of trying to help every single person. I thought it was cold at the time, but when I was guiding the kid? I was suddenly in pa's shoes, and they didn't fit right.

He didn't have any of those grand plans of becoming a god. He was just a man trying to do as much good as he can, and making sure I could do the same. But I'm seeing his own mistakes for the first time now, and i can't help but ask "what if". even now.

[waylay-managment-2]

“He wasn’t perfect. He made mistakes. That doesn’t mean it’s bad to love him.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I could never stop loving him.

I think my rose colored glasses finally broke.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Jackson, he made mistakes in raising you but I’ve made mistakes too. Everyone does. But what I will say is that everything you’ve told me about him is true. He was an amazing man and an amazing father. And I’m also glad that you can now take his words to help everyone with a grain of salt and realize that you don’t need to.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

y'know... it feels so long ago now... but you remember when I was just an angry kid with a gun listening to you bargain for our safety from the other side of yer office door?

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled.*

“Yes, and it was the most terrifying moment of my life.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Really? Not Aamon coming back, having to leave the Waylay, The mob?

[waylay-managment-2]

“… okay maybe not my life, but it’s up there.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Mine too. It was the first time I was scared to pull out my gun. looking at Campbell... I know I wouldn't have won that fight... but if I bought you time? That'd be 'nough for me.

[waylay-managment-2]

“That’s a bad thing.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Like father like son. Don't tell me you're any better.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Well I have a wife helping me through it and forcing me to breathe. You don’t have people like that back home.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I've found out I got a pretty big family back there. I might never pay for a hotel again.

I've learned a lot since then, though. Haven't I?

[waylay-managment-2]

“More than I know.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Is it... weird? You've only known me for a year and a half... I've known you for seven.

And I havent even aged a day.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Weirder things have happened.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I know. But it's disorienting even for me. In seven years you expect people to look a little different. No one here ages. Not even me. But that time still passed.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Yes. But we’re both still here, and that’s all I care about.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

still figuring out how to do more than survive?

wait.

*I turn to them in suprise, finally processing one thing said* When on earth did you get married?!

[waylay-managment-2]

*they sighed.*

“I keep forgetting to tell people! It wasn’t a whole thing, we were just both crying and she gave me a ring and that was that. She’s amazing though, you should meet her sometime.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I can't meet her if I don't know her name!

[waylay-managment-2]

“It’s Evelyn. You might’ve met before actually!”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I should have guessed! You two need to have an official wedding though! Wil's a bit love crazy for them, they asked me when I was going to bring someone back with me.

I think they'd love to plan their own fathers.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Maybe. It’s just not our style though.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I know, but also imagine the bragging rights of The Manager themselves having the first official marrige the Waylay'll see.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Of, Wormwood and Ro will beat me.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Not unless we do it fast. *I nudge their arm, before relenting*

So do I have to start calling her "mom" now?

[waylay-managment-2]

“Only if you want.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Then we'll see. How does she feel about becoming the step mom of... almost twenty kids? That figure right? twenty?

[waylay-managment-2]

“She already has five of her own, she’s ready for it.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

You should have lead with me having more siblings!

[waylay-managment-2]

“I only know one of them so far! And Cloud is a sweetie, but you need to learn sign language.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I already need to learn sign for Cleo. He said he'd teach me if I taught him knife tricks... and then I realized that I might not see my knife again if I gave it to him just for practice.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Jackson you much not see Cleo again if you give him your knife, that kid manages to hurt himself, kill someone else, and drink blood the moment he gets a thumb tack.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

trust me, I figured it out quick. Gave the kid a honey badger instead. Teach him responsibility first.

[waylay-managment-2]

“I would appreciate that.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*Selena cranes her neck to lick the Managers face. It's not hard to do, given I'm taller than them and she's cradled comfortably.*

"I'll try, at least. He's gonna be a tough one.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they leaned down and nuzzled her.*

“Now, where did you find this one?”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

She came up to me and Luci while we were fishing last night. Kept watching us from the trees until I bribed her with food to get closer. She's been sweet as cream ever since.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Well, she’s quite nice.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

She really is. Let me pick her right up and hold her in Angies saddle. I'd almost think she practically domesticated herself.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Mmm. Or someone made a coydog.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

She's too small for that, and she wasn't reckless. Most coydogs ain't scared of humans, it took over an hour to get her to come close to the fire

[waylay-managment-2]

“Mm. Maybe.”

[waylay-managment-2]

Finally home... *Longest week of my life, if only because of how stressed I was. Selena walks behind me, limping on her twisted leg, and JJ sleeps in my pocket while I walk up to dad* Dad? Finally back.

*They find him and start beaming.*

“Jackson! Welcome back!”

*they wrapped him in a hug then looked to Selena.*

“Ah, hello. Are you alright?”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Hey dad! *I hug him back, glad to be home. A week out seems to have really helped my thoughts*

This pretty girl is Selena *I pick her up, inviting her to start picking my face* Her back leg is twisted, Whenever Daisy has time, I'm gonna take her in and ask Daisy to amputate it. I wanna take her back out with me.

*I was not expecting to get so attached to her so fast. When did that happen?*

[waylay-managment-2]

“Well it must be causing her pain, we should do that now.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Alright. We can talk while Daisy operates. *I hold Selena. She's looking around eagerly, panting. I've never met a coyote who not only sociable, but near domesticated! Good girl* Did anything happen while I was out?

[waylay-managment-2]

“Well! Um… yes. A you get version of you showed up. And realized that you call me dad in the future. So… I apologize for any lies you may have been told as a child about death, and that was me.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*A lot of things now make sense. They're hazyer memories, before my powers made it impossible to truly forget anything... of people I know and love in the Waylay.*

"...I think that's the reason why I knew this place would be safe. Why I knew that I could come here, even if it was just for a day."

"...Am I still here?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Yes. You are.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Okay so we need to drop Selena off with Daisy... and fix that. *I frown at Selena. I planned on being with her during it, but this is a much more pressing issue.*

[waylay-managment-2]

“I’ll be with her. You go find him.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

"come with me? Say goodbye to him?"

*It still makes my chest tight thinking of asking for support, the last time I looked at my father like this... I couldn't even see him due to the rods in my eyes.*

*I need him just as much now.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled and nodded, putting a hand on Jackson’s shoulder.*

“Okay.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I guess we're finding him- me, first? I ain't sure where he is. I can't... sense him the way I do Seth.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Then let’s go. I can find him.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*I feel... nervous.* sounds good to me. *I let Selena down on the ground, her staying at my side.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they gently led him to where Jackie was playing.*

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*I crouch down next to him, tapping his should to distract from the small wood carving he's clearly focusing on* Well Howdy there little vaquero... seems yer a long way off from home. Are you ready to say goodbye?

*The younger me looks up, copper meeting silver. He clearly has questions I probably can't answer, but it's going to be part of his life.* "I'm saying goodbye?"

*I pick him up almost the same way I held Selena.* Tell the nice Manager bye, and thank them for letting you stay here, okay? We've got manners afterall.

[waylay-managment-2]

*The Manager patted Jackie’s head.*

“I know it’s sudden, but we’ve gotta send you home now. Back to your dad, okay?”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*Jackie holds his arms out for a hug. Even at six years old I knew he was someone safe.* "Please?"

"...It's going to be twelve years for him before he can come back." *I am starting to feel the ache growing. I could tell him so much. I could warn him of that night. I could tell him where our mother is. I could try and fix things*

[waylay-managment-2]

*The Manager squeezed Jackson’s hand and led Jackie to hug them both, whispering to Jackson.*

“Don’t.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

"Let's just get him back." *I brwak from the hug, Jackies hands untangling from The Managers neck with a small wave. Pa is gonna wonder how his clothes and hair are suddenly freshly cleaned.*

"I bet you don't really got a grasp on how to leave, do you?" *He nods back at me, while I place my hand on a door in the wall. I door I never thought to question before. A door that no one else seemed to ever notice. I set him down, crouching next to Jackie and guiding him.* "You gotta put your hand on the knob, and think hard about where you wanna go. Think about pa, and the horses, imagine them clearly. Do ya got it?"

*His eyes are screwed shut in deep concentration, brows furrowed with effort. It feels narcissistic to think I was a cute kid, but I also just like kids, so I'll chalk it up to that.* "I got it."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Good. Now all you have to do it go through.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*He opens the door. On the other side... I see him. Standing there, looking at a fire. Pepper is even there, laying down on the ground to rest. Jackie turns to me, holding out... a bug.* "Will you take care of Mister Harry? He isn't supposed to be there..."

*I want to call out. I want to hug my father, cry in his arms, apologize. Tell him I love him... But I'm not supposed to be there. What good would it do, the try and change any of this? If i told my father of his death, he'd smile and ask if I was alright. If I told Jackie of what's to come... no child should have to bear that burden.*

*I take Harry.* "We'll keep him safe here. And... don't be afraid. A lot of people here are going to be waiting for you, and they love you so much more than you'll ever be able to fathom, and then some. You'll be okay." *My voice cracks on the last syllable, while Jackie turns and leaves. I shouldn't watch, I know what it will do to my heart... But I can't look away as I see my father pick him up, a confused but gentle smile on his face. I really look nothing like him. But those eyes are the same, no doubt about it.*

*I shut the door, and hug the father that stands behind me.* "I almost went. I'll never see him again"

[waylay-managment-2]

*they wrap you in their arms, holding you tightly.*

“He’s with you. Everywhere you go. A part of him follows.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I could have said something. I could have tried to stop it... But it wouldn't have changed anything... I know it wouldn't. But I couldn't even try.

How did you look into his eyes? Knowing everything that'll happen? How did you stop yourself?

*my head is fully pressed into their neck, sobbing with the grief that never leaves. That always is there, living inside every memory*

[waylay-managment-2]

“By knowing that in the end, you’ll have a family, and a doctor, and people who will always keep you safe no matter what. And also, apparently a pet coyote.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Don't forget the squirrel and horse.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Exactly. Or your friends who are literally an entire fucking fire army.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I uh... would you call me and Amber friends? I figured she'd be pretty satisfied not seeing me ever again.

*I pick Selena back up after pulling away, the levity helping pick me back up* Speaking of... we got a doctor to see. Why is it that every time I come home I either cry, see Daisy, or both?

[waylay-managment-2]

“Because everyone does.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Sounds about right. And uh, you'll be glad to know the new leg works great.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled.*

“I’m glad. Where’s Angie?”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

outside already. She's all tied up with Luci's new horse, Vespera.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Lucifer? Really? Well I’m so glad you made friends!”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

..You forgot I was kidnapping him, I take it?

He's... I think he's starting to figure it out, or at least is finally thinking for himself. If Sparrow doesn't have him as a puppet... then maybe we have a chance for Candy. A real one, where everyone is happy.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled.*

“Of course. And no, I didn’t forget. I’m just happy he’s okay.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

...I wouldn't say that. Our first night out I ended up on the trail of a vampire. Things went south and... Luci was the one that staked the man.

He's just a kid, but he's the same age I was when I was left alone. I had come to terms with death, with being a part of that cycle so others could live... but he had to learn it brutally.

Hell I'm starting to question how pa raised me. Where is the difference between Sparrow and him?

[waylay-managment-2]

“Sparrow did what she did to raise the dead and become their god. She did what she did out of a wretched grief that turned her into a monster.

“Your father did everything he did out of pure love.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

But he also did it out of the same duty I carry now. He taught me to bear the weight of my powers, by being a servant to others. I didn't just hunt Vampires, I was a skilled marksman by the time I was ten, taking on my own creatures and putting myself in that line.

Daisy told me I need to start letting people solve their own issues, to only help those I can actually help instead of trying to help every single person. I thought it was cold at the time, but when I was guiding the kid? I was suddenly in pa's shoes, and they didn't fit right.

He didn't have any of those grand plans of becoming a god. He was just a man trying to do as much good as he can, and making sure I could do the same. But I'm seeing his own mistakes for the first time now, and i can't help but ask "what if". even now.

[waylay-managment-2]

“He wasn’t perfect. He made mistakes. That doesn’t mean it’s bad to love him.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I could never stop loving him.

I think my rose colored glasses finally broke.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Jackson, he made mistakes in raising you but I’ve made mistakes too. Everyone does. But what I will say is that everything you’ve told me about him is true. He was an amazing man and an amazing father. And I’m also glad that you can now take his words to help everyone with a grain of salt and realize that you don’t need to.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

y'know... it feels so long ago now... but you remember when I was just an angry kid with a gun listening to you bargain for our safety from the other side of yer office door?

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled.*

“Yes, and it was the most terrifying moment of my life.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Really? Not Aamon coming back, having to leave the Waylay, The mob?

[waylay-managment-2]

“… okay maybe not my life, but it’s up there.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Mine too. It was the first time I was scared to pull out my gun. looking at Campbell... I know I wouldn't have won that fight... but if I bought you time? That'd be 'nough for me.

[waylay-managment-2]

“That’s a bad thing.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Like father like son. Don't tell me you're any better.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Well I have a wife helping me through it and forcing me to breathe. You don’t have people like that back home.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I've found out I got a pretty big family back there. I might never pay for a hotel again.

I've learned a lot since then, though. Haven't I?

[waylay-managment-2]

“More than I know.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Is it... weird? You've only known me for a year and a half... I've known you for seven.

And I havent even aged a day.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Weirder things have happened.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I know. But it's disorienting even for me. In seven years you expect people to look a little different. No one here ages. Not even me. But that time still passed.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Yes. But we’re both still here, and that’s all I care about.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

still figuring out how to do more than survive?

wait.

*I turn to them in suprise, finally processing one thing said* When on earth did you get married?!

[waylay-managment-2]

*they sighed.*

“I keep forgetting to tell people! It wasn’t a whole thing, we were just both crying and she gave me a ring and that was that. She’s amazing though, you should meet her sometime.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I can't meet her if I don't know her name!

[waylay-managment-2]

“It’s Evelyn. You might’ve met before actually!”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I should have guessed! You two need to have an official wedding though! Wil's a bit love crazy for them, they asked me when I was going to bring someone back with me.

I think they'd love to plan their own fathers.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Maybe. It’s just not our style though.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I know, but also imagine the bragging rights of The Manager themselves having the first official marrige the Waylay'll see.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Of, Wormwood and Ro will beat me.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Not unless we do it fast. *I nudge their arm, before relenting*

So do I have to start calling her "mom" now?

[waylay-managment-2]

“Only if you want.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Then we'll see. How does she feel about becoming the step mom of... almost twenty kids? That figure right? twenty?

[waylay-managment-2]

“She already has five of her own, she’s ready for it.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

You should have lead with me having more siblings!

[waylay-managment-2]

“I only know one of them so far! And Cloud is a sweetie, but you need to learn sign language.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I already need to learn sign for Cleo. He said he'd teach me if I taught him knife tricks... and then I realized that I might not see my knife again if I gave it to him just for practice.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Jackson you much not see Cleo again if you give him your knife, that kid manages to hurt himself, kill someone else, and drink blood the moment he gets a thumb tack.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

trust me, I figured it out quick. Gave the kid a honey badger instead. Teach him responsibility first.

[waylay-managment-2]

“I would appreciate that.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*Selena cranes her neck to lick the Managers face. It's not hard to do, given I'm taller than them and she's cradled comfortably.*

"I'll try, at least. He's gonna be a tough one.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they leaned down and nuzzled her.*

“Now, where did you find this one?”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

She came up to me and Luci while we were fishing last night. Kept watching us from the trees until I bribed her with food to get closer. She's been sweet as cream ever since.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Well, she’s quite nice.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

She really is. Let me pick her right up and hold her in Angies saddle. I'd almost think she practically domesticated herself.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Mmm. Or someone made a coydog.”

[waylay-managment-2]

*Evelyn knocked once and opened the door to The Manager's office.*

"I have an idea."

-🏔

“Oh?”

[soaring-the-icy-skies]

"Well, technically it's Naga's idea, but that's not important. You know how Glory is trying to get used to being around you? What if I went to visit her with you to act as a sort of buffer between her and you? It might make her feel more comfortable if I'm there, too."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Amazing!”

[soaring-the-icy-skies]

"I know. She and Naga talked about it, because apparently Naga just up and walked out of the infirmary one day, but she told me that Glory was okay with that. If you don't have anything better to do, we can go visit Glory."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Of course. Oh— actually.”

*they took out a collar and regular necklace from their desk one was a pink choker with a little silver tag on it. The other was a silver necklace with a rose quartz stone.*

“So we match!”

[soaring-the-icy-skies]

*Her smile was nothing short of adoring.*

"I'm really happy to match with you."

[waylay-managment-2]

*they gave her the necklace and clipped the choker on themselves.*

[soaring-the-icy-skies]

*She put the necklace on, eyes wide and fixated on their throat.*

"Hm. You do look good with a bit of color."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Thanks. I thought you’d like it.”

[soaring-the-icy-skies]

"I do. Looks really good on.. that."

*She gestured to all of them.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they laughed and took her arm.*

“Come on, let’s go.”

[waylay-managment-2]

*Evelyn knocked once and opened the door to The Manager's office.*

"I have an idea."

-🏔

“Oh?”

[soaring-the-icy-skies]

"Well, technically it's Naga's idea, but that's not important. You know how Glory is trying to get used to being around you? What if I went to visit her with you to act as a sort of buffer between her and you? It might make her feel more comfortable if I'm there, too."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Amazing!”

[soaring-the-icy-skies]

"I know. She and Naga talked about it, because apparently Naga just up and walked out of the infirmary one day, but she told me that Glory was okay with that. If you don't have anything better to do, we can go visit Glory."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Of course. Oh— actually.”

*they took out a collar and regular necklace from their desk one was a pink choker with a little silver tag on it. The other was a silver necklace with a rose quartz stone.*

“So we match!”

[soaring-the-icy-skies]

*Her smile was nothing short of adoring.*

"I'm really happy to match with you."

[waylay-managment-2]

*they gave her the necklace and clipped the choker on themselves.*

[soaring-the-icy-skies]

*She put the necklace on, eyes wide and fixated on their throat.*

"Hm. You do look good with a bit of color."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Thanks. I thought you’d like it.”

[waylay-managment-2]

Finally home... *Longest week of my life, if only because of how stressed I was. Selena walks behind me, limping on her twisted leg, and JJ sleeps in my pocket while I walk up to dad* Dad? Finally back.

*They find him and start beaming.*

“Jackson! Welcome back!”

*they wrapped him in a hug then looked to Selena.*

“Ah, hello. Are you alright?”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Hey dad! *I hug him back, glad to be home. A week out seems to have really helped my thoughts*

This pretty girl is Selena *I pick her up, inviting her to start picking my face* Her back leg is twisted, Whenever Daisy has time, I'm gonna take her in and ask Daisy to amputate it. I wanna take her back out with me.

*I was not expecting to get so attached to her so fast. When did that happen?*

[waylay-managment-2]

“Well it must be causing her pain, we should do that now.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Alright. We can talk while Daisy operates. *I hold Selena. She's looking around eagerly, panting. I've never met a coyote who not only sociable, but near domesticated! Good girl* Did anything happen while I was out?

[waylay-managment-2]

“Well! Um… yes. A you get version of you showed up. And realized that you call me dad in the future. So… I apologize for any lies you may have been told as a child about death, and that was me.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*A lot of things now make sense. They're hazyer memories, before my powers made it impossible to truly forget anything... of people I know and love in the Waylay.*

"...I think that's the reason why I knew this place would be safe. Why I knew that I could come here, even if it was just for a day."

"...Am I still here?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Yes. You are.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Okay so we need to drop Selena off with Daisy... and fix that. *I frown at Selena. I planned on being with her during it, but this is a much more pressing issue.*

[waylay-managment-2]

“I’ll be with her. You go find him.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

"come with me? Say goodbye to him?"

*It still makes my chest tight thinking of asking for support, the last time I looked at my father like this... I couldn't even see him due to the rods in my eyes.*

*I need him just as much now.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled and nodded, putting a hand on Jackson’s shoulder.*

“Okay.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I guess we're finding him- me, first? I ain't sure where he is. I can't... sense him the way I do Seth.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Then let’s go. I can find him.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*I feel... nervous.* sounds good to me. *I let Selena down on the ground, her staying at my side.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they gently led him to where Jackie was playing.*

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*I crouch down next to him, tapping his should to distract from the small wood carving he's clearly focusing on* Well Howdy there little vaquero... seems yer a long way off from home. Are you ready to say goodbye?

*The younger me looks up, copper meeting silver. He clearly has questions I probably can't answer, but it's going to be part of his life.* "I'm saying goodbye?"

*I pick him up almost the same way I held Selena.* Tell the nice Manager bye, and thank them for letting you stay here, okay? We've got manners afterall.

[waylay-managment-2]

*The Manager patted Jackie’s head.*

“I know it’s sudden, but we’ve gotta send you home now. Back to your dad, okay?”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*Jackie holds his arms out for a hug. Even at six years old I knew he was someone safe.* "Please?"

"...It's going to be twelve years for him before he can come back." *I am starting to feel the ache growing. I could tell him so much. I could warn him of that night. I could tell him where our mother is. I could try and fix things*

[waylay-managment-2]

*The Manager squeezed Jackson’s hand and led Jackie to hug them both, whispering to Jackson.*

“Don’t.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

"Let's just get him back." *I brwak from the hug, Jackies hands untangling from The Managers neck with a small wave. Pa is gonna wonder how his clothes and hair are suddenly freshly cleaned.*

"I bet you don't really got a grasp on how to leave, do you?" *He nods back at me, while I place my hand on a door in the wall. I door I never thought to question before. A door that no one else seemed to ever notice. I set him down, crouching next to Jackie and guiding him.* "You gotta put your hand on the knob, and think hard about where you wanna go. Think about pa, and the horses, imagine them clearly. Do ya got it?"

*His eyes are screwed shut in deep concentration, brows furrowed with effort. It feels narcissistic to think I was a cute kid, but I also just like kids, so I'll chalk it up to that.* "I got it."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Good. Now all you have to do it go through.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*He opens the door. On the other side... I see him. Standing there, looking at a fire. Pepper is even there, laying down on the ground to rest. Jackie turns to me, holding out... a bug.* "Will you take care of Mister Harry? He isn't supposed to be there..."

*I want to call out. I want to hug my father, cry in his arms, apologize. Tell him I love him... But I'm not supposed to be there. What good would it do, the try and change any of this? If i told my father of his death, he'd smile and ask if I was alright. If I told Jackie of what's to come... no child should have to bear that burden.*

*I take Harry.* "We'll keep him safe here. And... don't be afraid. A lot of people here are going to be waiting for you, and they love you so much more than you'll ever be able to fathom, and then some. You'll be okay." *My voice cracks on the last syllable, while Jackie turns and leaves. I shouldn't watch, I know what it will do to my heart... But I can't look away as I see my father pick him up, a confused but gentle smile on his face. I really look nothing like him. But those eyes are the same, no doubt about it.*

*I shut the door, and hug the father that stands behind me.* "I almost went. I'll never see him again"

[waylay-managment-2]

*they wrap you in their arms, holding you tightly.*

“He’s with you. Everywhere you go. A part of him follows.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I could have said something. I could have tried to stop it... But it wouldn't have changed anything... I know it wouldn't. But I couldn't even try.

How did you look into his eyes? Knowing everything that'll happen? How did you stop yourself?

*my head is fully pressed into their neck, sobbing with the grief that never leaves. That always is there, living inside every memory*

[waylay-managment-2]

“By knowing that in the end, you’ll have a family, and a doctor, and people who will always keep you safe no matter what. And also, apparently a pet coyote.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Don't forget the squirrel and horse.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Exactly. Or your friends who are literally an entire fucking fire army.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I uh... would you call me and Amber friends? I figured she'd be pretty satisfied not seeing me ever again.

*I pick Selena back up after pulling away, the levity helping pick me back up* Speaking of... we got a doctor to see. Why is it that every time I come home I either cry, see Daisy, or both?

[waylay-managment-2]

“Because everyone does.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Sounds about right. And uh, you'll be glad to know the new leg works great.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled.*

“I’m glad. Where’s Angie?”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

outside already. She's all tied up with Luci's new horse, Vespera.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Lucifer? Really? Well I’m so glad you made friends!”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

..You forgot I was kidnapping him, I take it?

He's... I think he's starting to figure it out, or at least is finally thinking for himself. If Sparrow doesn't have him as a puppet... then maybe we have a chance for Candy. A real one, where everyone is happy.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled.*

“Of course. And no, I didn’t forget. I’m just happy he’s okay.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

...I wouldn't say that. Our first night out I ended up on the trail of a vampire. Things went south and... Luci was the one that staked the man.

He's just a kid, but he's the same age I was when I was left alone. I had come to terms with death, with being a part of that cycle so others could live... but he had to learn it brutally.

Hell I'm starting to question how pa raised me. Where is the difference between Sparrow and him?

[waylay-managment-2]

“Sparrow did what she did to raise the dead and become their god. She did what she did out of a wretched grief that turned her into a monster.

“Your father did everything he did out of pure love.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

But he also did it out of the same duty I carry now. He taught me to bear the weight of my powers, by being a servant to others. I didn't just hunt Vampires, I was a skilled marksman by the time I was ten, taking on my own creatures and putting myself in that line.

Daisy told me I need to start letting people solve their own issues, to only help those I can actually help instead of trying to help every single person. I thought it was cold at the time, but when I was guiding the kid? I was suddenly in pa's shoes, and they didn't fit right.

He didn't have any of those grand plans of becoming a god. He was just a man trying to do as much good as he can, and making sure I could do the same. But I'm seeing his own mistakes for the first time now, and i can't help but ask "what if". even now.

[waylay-managment-2]

“He wasn’t perfect. He made mistakes. That doesn’t mean it’s bad to love him.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I could never stop loving him.

I think my rose colored glasses finally broke.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Jackson, he made mistakes in raising you but I’ve made mistakes too. Everyone does. But what I will say is that everything you’ve told me about him is true. He was an amazing man and an amazing father. And I’m also glad that you can now take his words to help everyone with a grain of salt and realize that you don’t need to.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

y'know... it feels so long ago now... but you remember when I was just an angry kid with a gun listening to you bargain for our safety from the other side of yer office door?

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled.*

“Yes, and it was the most terrifying moment of my life.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Really? Not Aamon coming back, having to leave the Waylay, The mob?

[waylay-managment-2]

“… okay maybe not my life, but it’s up there.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Mine too. It was the first time I was scared to pull out my gun. looking at Campbell... I know I wouldn't have won that fight... but if I bought you time? That'd be 'nough for me.

[waylay-managment-2]

“That’s a bad thing.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Like father like son. Don't tell me you're any better.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Well I have a wife helping me through it and forcing me to breathe. You don’t have people like that back home.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I've found out I got a pretty big family back there. I might never pay for a hotel again.

I've learned a lot since then, though. Haven't I?

[waylay-managment-2]

“More than I know.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Is it... weird? You've only known me for a year and a half... I've known you for seven.

And I havent even aged a day.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Weirder things have happened.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I know. But it's disorienting even for me. In seven years you expect people to look a little different. No one here ages. Not even me. But that time still passed.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Yes. But we’re both still here, and that’s all I care about.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

still figuring out how to do more than survive?

wait.

*I turn to them in suprise, finally processing one thing said* When on earth did you get married?!

[waylay-managment-2]

*they sighed.*

“I keep forgetting to tell people! It wasn’t a whole thing, we were just both crying and she gave me a ring and that was that. She’s amazing though, you should meet her sometime.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I can't meet her if I don't know her name!

[waylay-managment-2]

“It’s Evelyn. You might’ve met before actually!”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I should have guessed! You two need to have an official wedding though! Wil's a bit love crazy for them, they asked me when I was going to bring someone back with me.

I think they'd love to plan their own fathers.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Maybe. It’s just not our style though.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I know, but also imagine the bragging rights of The Manager themselves having the first official marrige the Waylay'll see.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Of, Wormwood and Ro will beat me.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Not unless we do it fast. *I nudge their arm, before relenting*

So do I have to start calling her "mom" now?

[waylay-managment-2]

“Only if you want.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Then we'll see. How does she feel about becoming the step mom of... almost twenty kids? That figure right? twenty?

[waylay-managment-2]

“She already has five of her own, she’s ready for it.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

You should have lead with me having more siblings!

[waylay-managment-2]

“I only know one of them so far! And Cloud is a sweetie, but you need to learn sign language.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I already need to learn sign for Cleo. He said he'd teach me if I taught him knife tricks... and then I realized that I might not see my knife again if I gave it to him just for practice.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Jackson you much not see Cleo again if you give him your knife, that kid manages to hurt himself, kill someone else, and drink blood the moment he gets a thumb tack.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

trust me, I figured it out quick. Gave the kid a honey badger instead. Teach him responsibility first.

[waylay-managment-2]

“I would appreciate that.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*Selena cranes her neck to lick the Managers face. It's not hard to do, given I'm taller than them and she's cradled comfortably.*

"I'll try, at least. He's gonna be a tough one.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they leaned down and nuzzled her.*

“Now, where did you find this one?”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

She came up to me and Luci while we were fishing last night. Kept watching us from the trees until I bribed her with food to get closer. She's been sweet as cream ever since.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Well, she’s quite nice.”

[waylay-managment-2]

*Evelyn knocked once and opened the door to The Manager's office.*

"I have an idea."

-🏔

“Oh?”

[soaring-the-icy-skies]

"Well, technically it's Naga's idea, but that's not important. You know how Glory is trying to get used to being around you? What if I went to visit her with you to act as a sort of buffer between her and you? It might make her feel more comfortable if I'm there, too."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Amazing!”

[soaring-the-icy-skies]

"I know. She and Naga talked about it, because apparently Naga just up and walked out of the infirmary one day, but she told me that Glory was okay with that. If you don't have anything better to do, we can go visit Glory."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Of course. Oh— actually.”

*they took out a collar and regular necklace from their desk one was a pink choker with a little silver tag on it. The other was a silver necklace with a rose quartz stone.*

“So we match!”

[soaring-the-icy-skies]

*Her smile was nothing short of adoring.*

"I'm really happy to match with you."

[waylay-managment-2]

*they gave her the necklace and clipped the choker on themselves.*

[waylay-managment-2]

Finally home... *Longest week of my life, if only because of how stressed I was. Selena walks behind me, limping on her twisted leg, and JJ sleeps in my pocket while I walk up to dad* Dad? Finally back.

*They find him and start beaming.*

“Jackson! Welcome back!”

*they wrapped him in a hug then looked to Selena.*

“Ah, hello. Are you alright?”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Hey dad! *I hug him back, glad to be home. A week out seems to have really helped my thoughts*

This pretty girl is Selena *I pick her up, inviting her to start picking my face* Her back leg is twisted, Whenever Daisy has time, I'm gonna take her in and ask Daisy to amputate it. I wanna take her back out with me.

*I was not expecting to get so attached to her so fast. When did that happen?*

[waylay-managment-2]

“Well it must be causing her pain, we should do that now.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Alright. We can talk while Daisy operates. *I hold Selena. She's looking around eagerly, panting. I've never met a coyote who not only sociable, but near domesticated! Good girl* Did anything happen while I was out?

[waylay-managment-2]

“Well! Um… yes. A you get version of you showed up. And realized that you call me dad in the future. So… I apologize for any lies you may have been told as a child about death, and that was me.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*A lot of things now make sense. They're hazyer memories, before my powers made it impossible to truly forget anything... of people I know and love in the Waylay.*

"...I think that's the reason why I knew this place would be safe. Why I knew that I could come here, even if it was just for a day."

"...Am I still here?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Yes. You are.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Okay so we need to drop Selena off with Daisy... and fix that. *I frown at Selena. I planned on being with her during it, but this is a much more pressing issue.*

[waylay-managment-2]

“I’ll be with her. You go find him.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

"come with me? Say goodbye to him?"

*It still makes my chest tight thinking of asking for support, the last time I looked at my father like this... I couldn't even see him due to the rods in my eyes.*

*I need him just as much now.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled and nodded, putting a hand on Jackson’s shoulder.*

“Okay.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I guess we're finding him- me, first? I ain't sure where he is. I can't... sense him the way I do Seth.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Then let’s go. I can find him.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*I feel... nervous.* sounds good to me. *I let Selena down on the ground, her staying at my side.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they gently led him to where Jackie was playing.*

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*I crouch down next to him, tapping his should to distract from the small wood carving he's clearly focusing on* Well Howdy there little vaquero... seems yer a long way off from home. Are you ready to say goodbye?

*The younger me looks up, copper meeting silver. He clearly has questions I probably can't answer, but it's going to be part of his life.* "I'm saying goodbye?"

*I pick him up almost the same way I held Selena.* Tell the nice Manager bye, and thank them for letting you stay here, okay? We've got manners afterall.

[waylay-managment-2]

*The Manager patted Jackie’s head.*

“I know it’s sudden, but we’ve gotta send you home now. Back to your dad, okay?”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*Jackie holds his arms out for a hug. Even at six years old I knew he was someone safe.* "Please?"

"...It's going to be twelve years for him before he can come back." *I am starting to feel the ache growing. I could tell him so much. I could warn him of that night. I could tell him where our mother is. I could try and fix things*

[waylay-managment-2]

*The Manager squeezed Jackson’s hand and led Jackie to hug them both, whispering to Jackson.*

“Don’t.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

"Let's just get him back." *I brwak from the hug, Jackies hands untangling from The Managers neck with a small wave. Pa is gonna wonder how his clothes and hair are suddenly freshly cleaned.*

"I bet you don't really got a grasp on how to leave, do you?" *He nods back at me, while I place my hand on a door in the wall. I door I never thought to question before. A door that no one else seemed to ever notice. I set him down, crouching next to Jackie and guiding him.* "You gotta put your hand on the knob, and think hard about where you wanna go. Think about pa, and the horses, imagine them clearly. Do ya got it?"

*His eyes are screwed shut in deep concentration, brows furrowed with effort. It feels narcissistic to think I was a cute kid, but I also just like kids, so I'll chalk it up to that.* "I got it."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Good. Now all you have to do it go through.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*He opens the door. On the other side... I see him. Standing there, looking at a fire. Pepper is even there, laying down on the ground to rest. Jackie turns to me, holding out... a bug.* "Will you take care of Mister Harry? He isn't supposed to be there..."

*I want to call out. I want to hug my father, cry in his arms, apologize. Tell him I love him... But I'm not supposed to be there. What good would it do, the try and change any of this? If i told my father of his death, he'd smile and ask if I was alright. If I told Jackie of what's to come... no child should have to bear that burden.*

*I take Harry.* "We'll keep him safe here. And... don't be afraid. A lot of people here are going to be waiting for you, and they love you so much more than you'll ever be able to fathom, and then some. You'll be okay." *My voice cracks on the last syllable, while Jackie turns and leaves. I shouldn't watch, I know what it will do to my heart... But I can't look away as I see my father pick him up, a confused but gentle smile on his face. I really look nothing like him. But those eyes are the same, no doubt about it.*

*I shut the door, and hug the father that stands behind me.* "I almost went. I'll never see him again"

[waylay-managment-2]

*they wrap you in their arms, holding you tightly.*

“He’s with you. Everywhere you go. A part of him follows.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I could have said something. I could have tried to stop it... But it wouldn't have changed anything... I know it wouldn't. But I couldn't even try.

How did you look into his eyes? Knowing everything that'll happen? How did you stop yourself?

*my head is fully pressed into their neck, sobbing with the grief that never leaves. That always is there, living inside every memory*

[waylay-managment-2]

“By knowing that in the end, you’ll have a family, and a doctor, and people who will always keep you safe no matter what. And also, apparently a pet coyote.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Don't forget the squirrel and horse.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Exactly. Or your friends who are literally an entire fucking fire army.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I uh... would you call me and Amber friends? I figured she'd be pretty satisfied not seeing me ever again.

*I pick Selena back up after pulling away, the levity helping pick me back up* Speaking of... we got a doctor to see. Why is it that every time I come home I either cry, see Daisy, or both?

[waylay-managment-2]

“Because everyone does.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Sounds about right. And uh, you'll be glad to know the new leg works great.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled.*

“I’m glad. Where’s Angie?”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

outside already. She's all tied up with Luci's new horse, Vespera.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Lucifer? Really? Well I’m so glad you made friends!”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

..You forgot I was kidnapping him, I take it?

He's... I think he's starting to figure it out, or at least is finally thinking for himself. If Sparrow doesn't have him as a puppet... then maybe we have a chance for Candy. A real one, where everyone is happy.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled.*

“Of course. And no, I didn’t forget. I’m just happy he’s okay.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

...I wouldn't say that. Our first night out I ended up on the trail of a vampire. Things went south and... Luci was the one that staked the man.

He's just a kid, but he's the same age I was when I was left alone. I had come to terms with death, with being a part of that cycle so others could live... but he had to learn it brutally.

Hell I'm starting to question how pa raised me. Where is the difference between Sparrow and him?

[waylay-managment-2]

“Sparrow did what she did to raise the dead and become their god. She did what she did out of a wretched grief that turned her into a monster.

“Your father did everything he did out of pure love.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

But he also did it out of the same duty I carry now. He taught me to bear the weight of my powers, by being a servant to others. I didn't just hunt Vampires, I was a skilled marksman by the time I was ten, taking on my own creatures and putting myself in that line.

Daisy told me I need to start letting people solve their own issues, to only help those I can actually help instead of trying to help every single person. I thought it was cold at the time, but when I was guiding the kid? I was suddenly in pa's shoes, and they didn't fit right.

He didn't have any of those grand plans of becoming a god. He was just a man trying to do as much good as he can, and making sure I could do the same. But I'm seeing his own mistakes for the first time now, and i can't help but ask "what if". even now.

[waylay-managment-2]

“He wasn’t perfect. He made mistakes. That doesn’t mean it’s bad to love him.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I could never stop loving him.

I think my rose colored glasses finally broke.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Jackson, he made mistakes in raising you but I’ve made mistakes too. Everyone does. But what I will say is that everything you’ve told me about him is true. He was an amazing man and an amazing father. And I’m also glad that you can now take his words to help everyone with a grain of salt and realize that you don’t need to.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

y'know... it feels so long ago now... but you remember when I was just an angry kid with a gun listening to you bargain for our safety from the other side of yer office door?

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled.*

“Yes, and it was the most terrifying moment of my life.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Really? Not Aamon coming back, having to leave the Waylay, The mob?

[waylay-managment-2]

“… okay maybe not my life, but it’s up there.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Mine too. It was the first time I was scared to pull out my gun. looking at Campbell... I know I wouldn't have won that fight... but if I bought you time? That'd be 'nough for me.

[waylay-managment-2]

“That’s a bad thing.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Like father like son. Don't tell me you're any better.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Well I have a wife helping me through it and forcing me to breathe. You don’t have people like that back home.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I've found out I got a pretty big family back there. I might never pay for a hotel again.

I've learned a lot since then, though. Haven't I?

[waylay-managment-2]

“More than I know.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Is it... weird? You've only known me for a year and a half... I've known you for seven.

And I havent even aged a day.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Weirder things have happened.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I know. But it's disorienting even for me. In seven years you expect people to look a little different. No one here ages. Not even me. But that time still passed.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Yes. But we’re both still here, and that’s all I care about.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

still figuring out how to do more than survive?

wait.

*I turn to them in suprise, finally processing one thing said* When on earth did you get married?!

[waylay-managment-2]

*they sighed.*

“I keep forgetting to tell people! It wasn’t a whole thing, we were just both crying and she gave me a ring and that was that. She’s amazing though, you should meet her sometime.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I can't meet her if I don't know her name!

[waylay-managment-2]

“It’s Evelyn. You might’ve met before actually!”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I should have guessed! You two need to have an official wedding though! Wil's a bit love crazy for them, they asked me when I was going to bring someone back with me.

I think they'd love to plan their own fathers.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Maybe. It’s just not our style though.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I know, but also imagine the bragging rights of The Manager themselves having the first official marrige the Waylay'll see.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Of, Wormwood and Ro will beat me.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Not unless we do it fast. *I nudge their arm, before relenting*

So do I have to start calling her "mom" now?

[waylay-managment-2]

“Only if you want.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

Then we'll see. How does she feel about becoming the step mom of... almost twenty kids? That figure right? twenty?

[waylay-managment-2]

“She already has five of her own, she’s ready for it.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

You should have lead with me having more siblings!

[waylay-managment-2]

“I only know one of them so far! And Cloud is a sweetie, but you need to learn sign language.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

I already need to learn sign for Cleo. He said he'd teach me if I taught him knife tricks... and then I realized that I might not see my knife again if I gave it to him just for practice.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Jackson you much not see Cleo again if you give him your knife, that kid manages to hurt himself, kill someone else, and drink blood the moment he gets a thumb tack.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

trust me, I figured it out quick. Gave the kid a honey badger instead. Teach him responsibility first.

[waylay-managment-2]

“I would appreciate that.”

[twelve-starry-eyes]

*Selena cranes her neck to lick the Managers face. It's not hard to do, given I'm taller than them and she's cradled comfortably.*

"I'll try, at least. He's gonna be a tough one.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they leaned down and nuzzled her.*

“Now, where did you find this one?”

[waylay-managment-2]

Rosa stopped by the Manager's side with slightly wide eyes and a serious face. Her brows were a little bit tensed up, and the green in her irises glowed just faintly. That was the face she made when she had made up her mind about something.

"I need you to teach me how to fight."

@fromcanvastolife 🖌️

*they looked at her in surprise, then nodded.*

“Against who?”

[fromcanvastolife]

She bit her lip. "I'm thinking more of a general thing. There isn't anyone specifically that I want to fight, but I was thinking... I don't wanna be completely helpless if I need to fight."

[waylay-managment-2]

*they looked at her.*

“Rosa. Do you need to fight Emcee, or are you anxious and need to feel like you can protect your girlfriend?”

[fromcanvastolife]

She blinked, kind of livid. Her eyes were wider and more worried. "W-why would I need to fight Emcee?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Because he’s horrible and we hate him.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She scratched her hand. "Did... did something happen that I do not know? I thought you guys were... on better terms with each other. Did he do something?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“No. I just found new information from the past.”

[fromcanvastolife]

So he didn't do anything new. He did do something, though.

"R... right. Uhm. I'm tempted to ask what it is, because he's friends with Candy, but... well, but he's not the reason why I'm here, no. I wouldn't call it as much as defending my girlfriend, because... well, self explanatory, considering who she is. Though of course, if she needed my help, I'd be glad to help. But... this is more of a general thing. I... just don't want to be helpless."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Fair. In that case, what weapon would you like.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Hmm... I'm not sure. I'm not big on weapons. Can't I... hmm just attack with magic? From... a distance maybe?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Absolutely.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She smiled, excited. "Nice! Okay, that's great. Can you teach me?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Absolutely”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Great! When can we start?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Right now, get on top of a building.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She nodded, then stopped to ponder. "Any building in the Waylay?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Yes.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Right!" She raised her hand and snapped her fingers. Suddenly Rosa was on top of an utility shack outside. She looked around, waiting for the Manager.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Good.”

*they were behind her.*

[fromcanvastolife]

"You're so fast," she chuckled, facing them excitedly.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Correct.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa blinked a few times, trying to contain the urge to bounce in place. "Okay. What do we do now?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Hit a tree.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Slowly, Rosa brought a hand forward. It looked like she was picking a tree to aim. "Can it be a branch? I... don't wanna kill the whole tree..."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Sure.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She aimed and concentrated. It took her a couple of seconds, but suddenly a bright blue light left her arm, followed by a thin lightning that lunged forward and hit the end of a branch.

Rosa hissed, waving her hand. "Ugh! It burns."

[waylay-managment-2]

“So find something that doesn’t.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Uhm, well... the problem is that... i fear that's all I know how to do so far, in the matter of attacking."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Okay. So what do you know that doesn’t burn you and doesn’t cause harm?”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Hmm... I know how to paint. And... to pull things from the canvas. But that's not exactly offensive magic. Not directly."

Rosa bit her lip. She was hoping she could blast things using her powers. That would be cool, if only she knew how to not get burned by her own attack.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Paintball gun.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Paintball gun? What's that?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“You hit people with hardened balls of paint that explode on impact.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She pondered for a moment. "But is this... lethal? Does it hurt? If someone was trying to kill me, could I defend myself with hardened paint?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Oh it hurt like a bitch.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Does it... kill, though?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Rosa, you’re a god. You can make it kill if you want.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"But how? I... I'm not sure how. Just like I'm not sure how to blast the lightning without burning myself."

[waylay-managment-2]

*they narrowed their eyes.*

“You don’t just… know? Like a baby giraffe?”

[fromcanvastolife]

She scratched her head, clearly confused. "Like....? What aboit the baby giraffes?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Unlike human babies, baby giraffes are born being able to do everything they need to do to survive. They can run and eat food and do anything. I was like that too. As soon as I existed I knew how to use my magic. Do you not?”

[fromcanvastolife]

She shook her head. "No, I... I don't think so. Unless all I do now is all I can do. Hmm..."

[waylay-managment-2]

“How did you learn about the lightning?”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Hmmm... I'm not sure. I saw Nillah's Lillith doing it a few times and thought... maybe I could do it too? But she doesn't burn herself."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Okay. So, how did you teach yourself too?”

[fromcanvastolife]

"I guess... Well, I saw Lillith was messing with you and thought I might try it. It worked, but I don't know how explain, I just wanted it to happen really bad, and it kind of worked? Something clicked, but I can't explain why or how. It just made sense at the time. But nobody ever explained much, Nillah said I didn't really need to know any of this because she'd... always protect me."

[waylay-managment-2]

*they thought for A moment.*

“Try and shoot the tree again. This time, think of it like real lightning.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Real lightning... coming out of my hand... okay..." she murmured, more to herself than to them, and aimed again, with the same hand. She kept staring at the branch for a few seconds, seemingly concentrating. This time, something occurred to her, and there was a chill that ran up her spine, from the floor to the tip of her finger when a blast of electricity left it and destroyed the branch.

Rosa shook her hand once more. "Still burns. But a bit less so, now!"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Good. Now, lightning comes from the ground to the sky. Is that what’s happening here?”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Hmm, I think so!" Rosa nodded. "I tried to think of a way to isolate my arm from the blast, too. I thought of a little bubble around my arm."

[waylay-managment-2]

“This time, try and think of your arm as a copper circuit. All the energy absorbed back.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"But if I absorb it back, won't it hurt me as well?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“No. Copper isn’t in pain when it’s used as a conductor.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Okay. I'm copper... Hmmm..." She aimed again. It looked like Rosa was concentrating on what The Manager said, because this time, she didn't quite hit the branch, but rather quickly looked at her hand, eyes widening. "It didn't hurt as much. It was more like... tingling."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Exactly.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"I just have to... hit the target, next time. Damn, you really have think of multiple things to release an attack."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Which is exactly why most humans and lower gods don’t use much magic. It’s incredibly difficult unless you have the extra brain space.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She narrowed her eyes, smirking. "I'll make it happen, though." Her eyes darted to the tree-target.

"In another target. That poor tree has suffered enough from my wrath."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Eh. Woodpeckers get some cooked foot for once.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa chuckled, swaying and then turning around to glance at them.

"Let us find another target... hmm, there are more trees there." She aimed, closing an eye... and then stopped, lowering her hand. "Wil doesn't feel that, right? It's just the building."

[waylay-managment-2]

“No, Wil doesn’t feel it. I wouldn’t have let you shoot it if it did.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa let out a discreet sigh of relief. "Gosh, good. I-- forgot to ask that then and... well, just gotta make sure, right..."

She aimed again. It took her a few good seconds, but it looked like this time the lightning shot the branch Rosa was aiming, because she jumped in place and pointed. "I did it!"

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled and ruffled her hair.*

“Perfect!”

[fromcanvastolife]

Her smile was huge, but she tried to contain herself and be put and still. Her fingers still drummed on her palms gleefully. "Nice. Hmm. Now I just gotta do this quickier. And maybe with moving targets."

"What else should I learn? Would I know how to do anything else?"

There was someone else who inherited powers from her late wife, Rosa knew, but the thought of asking Lillith for anything gave the artist chills in her spine.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Let’s focus on this for now. A jack of all trades is only good if you can afford to miss the first few shots.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She nodded, "true. Now... what do I do?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“I’m gonna go down there and run at you as fast as I can and you’re gonna shoot me.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She seemed mildly intimidated. "But... this will hurt you..."

[waylay-managment-2]

“If it does, then you’re a very very good shot.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"... Okay. Okay, I can do this. Hmm, yes. Okay, you can go. I'm sure I'm not that good but we got to try anyway."

She nodded, hands neatly holded on her lap. "Let's go."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Alright!”

*they hopped down and ran through a spot in the trees where she could see them the whole time.*

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa nodded, waving at them. She could feel her own heart racing.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they waved back before stopping a ways away, turning around, and barreling towards her at full velocity.*

[fromcanvastolife]

The speed for sure scared Rosa, because she jumped back. She aimed at them and missed the first shot by a large margin, which singed the grass, but when the Manager was just a few meters from her, the godling released another shot. This one, however, was different, and instead of simply blasting at them, this lightning turned into a live wire thread and wrapped around their legs to release a shock.

Rosa let out a little yelp as if she wasn't expecting such an outcome herself.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they looked down at their legs in surprise, despite the fact their suit was catching fire and their hair was standing on end.*

“Amazing!”

[fromcanvastolife]

"T-Thank you! Y-you're catching fire!!" She pointed at them, eyes wide open.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they rolled around in the ground until the fire went out.*

[fromcanvastolife]

Considering they probably could snap their fingers and extinguish the fire, seeing the Manager rolling on the floor was very funny. Rosa chuckled covering her mouth.

"Did it hurt too bad? Oh gods, can't believe I really hit you. Not exactly how I was intending to, but I was more successful than the expected."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Oh no, it barely hurt at all.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"You're very durable." She shrugged and smiled proudly.

[waylay-managment-2]

“It’s scar tissue.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Fair! Now what? What next?"

Suddenly Rosa was very excited to practice more. This was very fun and enriching! Yet despite her excitement, there was a touch of ressentment and confusion in her, too, because why hadn't her own late wife trained the artist as well? It'd have been beneficial to both of them... wouldn't it?

[waylay-managment-2]

“We do that again.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa nodded. "Okay. Let's do it!"

[waylay-managment-2]

*they repeated the process, only this time, they actively dodged.*

[waylay-managment-2]

Rosa stopped by the Manager's side with slightly wide eyes and a serious face. Her brows were a little bit tensed up, and the green in her irises glowed just faintly. That was the face she made when she had made up her mind about something.

"I need you to teach me how to fight."

@fromcanvastolife 🖌️

*they looked at her in surprise, then nodded.*

“Against who?”

[fromcanvastolife]

She bit her lip. "I'm thinking more of a general thing. There isn't anyone specifically that I want to fight, but I was thinking... I don't wanna be completely helpless if I need to fight."

[waylay-managment-2]

*they looked at her.*

“Rosa. Do you need to fight Emcee, or are you anxious and need to feel like you can protect your girlfriend?”

[fromcanvastolife]

She blinked, kind of livid. Her eyes were wider and more worried. "W-why would I need to fight Emcee?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Because he’s horrible and we hate him.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She scratched her hand. "Did... did something happen that I do not know? I thought you guys were... on better terms with each other. Did he do something?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“No. I just found new information from the past.”

[fromcanvastolife]

So he didn't do anything new. He did do something, though.

"R... right. Uhm. I'm tempted to ask what it is, because he's friends with Candy, but... well, but he's not the reason why I'm here, no. I wouldn't call it as much as defending my girlfriend, because... well, self explanatory, considering who she is. Though of course, if she needed my help, I'd be glad to help. But... this is more of a general thing. I... just don't want to be helpless."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Fair. In that case, what weapon would you like.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Hmm... I'm not sure. I'm not big on weapons. Can't I... hmm just attack with magic? From... a distance maybe?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Absolutely.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She smiled, excited. "Nice! Okay, that's great. Can you teach me?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Absolutely”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Great! When can we start?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Right now, get on top of a building.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She nodded, then stopped to ponder. "Any building in the Waylay?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Yes.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Right!" She raised her hand and snapped her fingers. Suddenly Rosa was on top of an utility shack outside. She looked around, waiting for the Manager.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Good.”

*they were behind her.*

[fromcanvastolife]

"You're so fast," she chuckled, facing them excitedly.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Correct.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa blinked a few times, trying to contain the urge to bounce in place. "Okay. What do we do now?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Hit a tree.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Slowly, Rosa brought a hand forward. It looked like she was picking a tree to aim. "Can it be a branch? I... don't wanna kill the whole tree..."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Sure.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She aimed and concentrated. It took her a couple of seconds, but suddenly a bright blue light left her arm, followed by a thin lightning that lunged forward and hit the end of a branch.

Rosa hissed, waving her hand. "Ugh! It burns."

[waylay-managment-2]

“So find something that doesn’t.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Uhm, well... the problem is that... i fear that's all I know how to do so far, in the matter of attacking."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Okay. So what do you know that doesn’t burn you and doesn’t cause harm?”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Hmm... I know how to paint. And... to pull things from the canvas. But that's not exactly offensive magic. Not directly."

Rosa bit her lip. She was hoping she could blast things using her powers. That would be cool, if only she knew how to not get burned by her own attack.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Paintball gun.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Paintball gun? What's that?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“You hit people with hardened balls of paint that explode on impact.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She pondered for a moment. "But is this... lethal? Does it hurt? If someone was trying to kill me, could I defend myself with hardened paint?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Oh it hurt like a bitch.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Does it... kill, though?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Rosa, you’re a god. You can make it kill if you want.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"But how? I... I'm not sure how. Just like I'm not sure how to blast the lightning without burning myself."

[waylay-managment-2]

*they narrowed their eyes.*

“You don’t just… know? Like a baby giraffe?”

[fromcanvastolife]

She scratched her head, clearly confused. "Like....? What aboit the baby giraffes?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Unlike human babies, baby giraffes are born being able to do everything they need to do to survive. They can run and eat food and do anything. I was like that too. As soon as I existed I knew how to use my magic. Do you not?”

[fromcanvastolife]

She shook her head. "No, I... I don't think so. Unless all I do now is all I can do. Hmm..."

[waylay-managment-2]

“How did you learn about the lightning?”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Hmmm... I'm not sure. I saw Nillah's Lillith doing it a few times and thought... maybe I could do it too? But she doesn't burn herself."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Okay. So, how did you teach yourself too?”

[fromcanvastolife]

"I guess... Well, I saw Lillith was messing with you and thought I might try it. It worked, but I don't know how explain, I just wanted it to happen really bad, and it kind of worked? Something clicked, but I can't explain why or how. It just made sense at the time. But nobody ever explained much, Nillah said I didn't really need to know any of this because she'd... always protect me."

[waylay-managment-2]

*they thought for A moment.*

“Try and shoot the tree again. This time, think of it like real lightning.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Real lightning... coming out of my hand... okay..." she murmured, more to herself than to them, and aimed again, with the same hand. She kept staring at the branch for a few seconds, seemingly concentrating. This time, something occurred to her, and there was a chill that ran up her spine, from the floor to the tip of her finger when a blast of electricity left it and destroyed the branch.

Rosa shook her hand once more. "Still burns. But a bit less so, now!"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Good. Now, lightning comes from the ground to the sky. Is that what’s happening here?”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Hmm, I think so!" Rosa nodded. "I tried to think of a way to isolate my arm from the blast, too. I thought of a little bubble around my arm."

[waylay-managment-2]

“This time, try and think of your arm as a copper circuit. All the energy absorbed back.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"But if I absorb it back, won't it hurt me as well?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“No. Copper isn’t in pain when it’s used as a conductor.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Okay. I'm copper... Hmmm..." She aimed again. It looked like Rosa was concentrating on what The Manager said, because this time, she didn't quite hit the branch, but rather quickly looked at her hand, eyes widening. "It didn't hurt as much. It was more like... tingling."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Exactly.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"I just have to... hit the target, next time. Damn, you really have think of multiple things to release an attack."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Which is exactly why most humans and lower gods don’t use much magic. It’s incredibly difficult unless you have the extra brain space.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She narrowed her eyes, smirking. "I'll make it happen, though." Her eyes darted to the tree-target.

"In another target. That poor tree has suffered enough from my wrath."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Eh. Woodpeckers get some cooked foot for once.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa chuckled, swaying and then turning around to glance at them.

"Let us find another target... hmm, there are more trees there." She aimed, closing an eye... and then stopped, lowering her hand. "Wil doesn't feel that, right? It's just the building."

[waylay-managment-2]

“No, Wil doesn’t feel it. I wouldn’t have let you shoot it if it did.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa let out a discreet sigh of relief. "Gosh, good. I-- forgot to ask that then and... well, just gotta make sure, right..."

She aimed again. It took her a few good seconds, but it looked like this time the lightning shot the branch Rosa was aiming, because she jumped in place and pointed. "I did it!"

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled and ruffled her hair.*

“Perfect!”

[fromcanvastolife]

Her smile was huge, but she tried to contain herself and be put and still. Her fingers still drummed on her palms gleefully. "Nice. Hmm. Now I just gotta do this quickier. And maybe with moving targets."

"What else should I learn? Would I know how to do anything else?"

There was someone else who inherited powers from her late wife, Rosa knew, but the thought of asking Lillith for anything gave the artist chills in her spine.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Let’s focus on this for now. A jack of all trades is only good if you can afford to miss the first few shots.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She nodded, "true. Now... what do I do?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“I’m gonna go down there and run at you as fast as I can and you’re gonna shoot me.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She seemed mildly intimidated. "But... this will hurt you..."

[waylay-managment-2]

“If it does, then you’re a very very good shot.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"... Okay. Okay, I can do this. Hmm, yes. Okay, you can go. I'm sure I'm not that good but we got to try anyway."

She nodded, hands neatly holded on her lap. "Let's go."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Alright!”

*they hopped down and ran through a spot in the trees where she could see them the whole time.*

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa nodded, waving at them. She could feel her own heart racing.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they waved back before stopping a ways away, turning around, and barreling towards her at full velocity.*

[fromcanvastolife]

The speed for sure scared Rosa, because she jumped back. She aimed at them and missed the first shot by a large margin, which singed the grass, but when the Manager was just a few meters from her, the godling released another shot. This one, however, was different, and instead of simply blasting at them, this lightning turned into a live wire thread and wrapped around their legs to release a shock.

Rosa let out a little yelp as if she wasn't expecting such an outcome herself.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they looked down at their legs in surprise, despite the fact their suit was catching fire and their hair was standing on end.*

“Amazing!”

[fromcanvastolife]

"T-Thank you! Y-you're catching fire!!" She pointed at them, eyes wide open.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they rolled around in the ground until the fire went out.*

[fromcanvastolife]

Considering they probably could snap their fingers and extinguish the fire, seeing the Manager rolling on the floor was very funny. Rosa chuckled covering her mouth.

"Did it hurt too bad? Oh gods, can't believe I really hit you. Not exactly how I was intending to, but I was more successful than the expected."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Oh no, it barely hurt at all.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"You're very durable." She shrugged and smiled proudly.

[waylay-managment-2]

“It’s scar tissue.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Fair! Now what? What next?"

Suddenly Rosa was very excited to practice more. This was very fun and enriching! Yet despite her excitement, there was a touch of ressentment and confusion in her, too, because why hadn't her own late wife trained the artist as well? It'd have been beneficial to both of them... wouldn't it?

[waylay-managment-2]

“We do that again.”

[waylay-managment-2]

Rosa stopped by the Manager's side with slightly wide eyes and a serious face. Her brows were a little bit tensed up, and the green in her irises glowed just faintly. That was the face she made when she had made up her mind about something.

"I need you to teach me how to fight."

@fromcanvastolife 🖌️

*they looked at her in surprise, then nodded.*

“Against who?”

[fromcanvastolife]

She bit her lip. "I'm thinking more of a general thing. There isn't anyone specifically that I want to fight, but I was thinking... I don't wanna be completely helpless if I need to fight."

[waylay-managment-2]

*they looked at her.*

“Rosa. Do you need to fight Emcee, or are you anxious and need to feel like you can protect your girlfriend?”

[fromcanvastolife]

She blinked, kind of livid. Her eyes were wider and more worried. "W-why would I need to fight Emcee?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Because he’s horrible and we hate him.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She scratched her hand. "Did... did something happen that I do not know? I thought you guys were... on better terms with each other. Did he do something?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“No. I just found new information from the past.”

[fromcanvastolife]

So he didn't do anything new. He did do something, though.

"R... right. Uhm. I'm tempted to ask what it is, because he's friends with Candy, but... well, but he's not the reason why I'm here, no. I wouldn't call it as much as defending my girlfriend, because... well, self explanatory, considering who she is. Though of course, if she needed my help, I'd be glad to help. But... this is more of a general thing. I... just don't want to be helpless."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Fair. In that case, what weapon would you like.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Hmm... I'm not sure. I'm not big on weapons. Can't I... hmm just attack with magic? From... a distance maybe?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Absolutely.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She smiled, excited. "Nice! Okay, that's great. Can you teach me?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Absolutely”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Great! When can we start?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Right now, get on top of a building.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She nodded, then stopped to ponder. "Any building in the Waylay?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Yes.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Right!" She raised her hand and snapped her fingers. Suddenly Rosa was on top of an utility shack outside. She looked around, waiting for the Manager.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Good.”

*they were behind her.*

[fromcanvastolife]

"You're so fast," she chuckled, facing them excitedly.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Correct.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa blinked a few times, trying to contain the urge to bounce in place. "Okay. What do we do now?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Hit a tree.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Slowly, Rosa brought a hand forward. It looked like she was picking a tree to aim. "Can it be a branch? I... don't wanna kill the whole tree..."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Sure.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She aimed and concentrated. It took her a couple of seconds, but suddenly a bright blue light left her arm, followed by a thin lightning that lunged forward and hit the end of a branch.

Rosa hissed, waving her hand. "Ugh! It burns."

[waylay-managment-2]

“So find something that doesn’t.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Uhm, well... the problem is that... i fear that's all I know how to do so far, in the matter of attacking."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Okay. So what do you know that doesn’t burn you and doesn’t cause harm?”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Hmm... I know how to paint. And... to pull things from the canvas. But that's not exactly offensive magic. Not directly."

Rosa bit her lip. She was hoping she could blast things using her powers. That would be cool, if only she knew how to not get burned by her own attack.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Paintball gun.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Paintball gun? What's that?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“You hit people with hardened balls of paint that explode on impact.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She pondered for a moment. "But is this... lethal? Does it hurt? If someone was trying to kill me, could I defend myself with hardened paint?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Oh it hurt like a bitch.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Does it... kill, though?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Rosa, you’re a god. You can make it kill if you want.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"But how? I... I'm not sure how. Just like I'm not sure how to blast the lightning without burning myself."

[waylay-managment-2]

*they narrowed their eyes.*

“You don’t just… know? Like a baby giraffe?”

[fromcanvastolife]

She scratched her head, clearly confused. "Like....? What aboit the baby giraffes?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Unlike human babies, baby giraffes are born being able to do everything they need to do to survive. They can run and eat food and do anything. I was like that too. As soon as I existed I knew how to use my magic. Do you not?”

[fromcanvastolife]

She shook her head. "No, I... I don't think so. Unless all I do now is all I can do. Hmm..."

[waylay-managment-2]

“How did you learn about the lightning?”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Hmmm... I'm not sure. I saw Nillah's Lillith doing it a few times and thought... maybe I could do it too? But she doesn't burn herself."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Okay. So, how did you teach yourself too?”

[fromcanvastolife]

"I guess... Well, I saw Lillith was messing with you and thought I might try it. It worked, but I don't know how explain, I just wanted it to happen really bad, and it kind of worked? Something clicked, but I can't explain why or how. It just made sense at the time. But nobody ever explained much, Nillah said I didn't really need to know any of this because she'd... always protect me."

[waylay-managment-2]

*they thought for A moment.*

“Try and shoot the tree again. This time, think of it like real lightning.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Real lightning... coming out of my hand... okay..." she murmured, more to herself than to them, and aimed again, with the same hand. She kept staring at the branch for a few seconds, seemingly concentrating. This time, something occurred to her, and there was a chill that ran up her spine, from the floor to the tip of her finger when a blast of electricity left it and destroyed the branch.

Rosa shook her hand once more. "Still burns. But a bit less so, now!"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Good. Now, lightning comes from the ground to the sky. Is that what’s happening here?”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Hmm, I think so!" Rosa nodded. "I tried to think of a way to isolate my arm from the blast, too. I thought of a little bubble around my arm."

[waylay-managment-2]

“This time, try and think of your arm as a copper circuit. All the energy absorbed back.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"But if I absorb it back, won't it hurt me as well?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“No. Copper isn’t in pain when it’s used as a conductor.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Okay. I'm copper... Hmmm..." She aimed again. It looked like Rosa was concentrating on what The Manager said, because this time, she didn't quite hit the branch, but rather quickly looked at her hand, eyes widening. "It didn't hurt as much. It was more like... tingling."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Exactly.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"I just have to... hit the target, next time. Damn, you really have think of multiple things to release an attack."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Which is exactly why most humans and lower gods don’t use much magic. It’s incredibly difficult unless you have the extra brain space.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She narrowed her eyes, smirking. "I'll make it happen, though." Her eyes darted to the tree-target.

"In another target. That poor tree has suffered enough from my wrath."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Eh. Woodpeckers get some cooked foot for once.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa chuckled, swaying and then turning around to glance at them.

"Let us find another target... hmm, there are more trees there." She aimed, closing an eye... and then stopped, lowering her hand. "Wil doesn't feel that, right? It's just the building."

[waylay-managment-2]

“No, Wil doesn’t feel it. I wouldn’t have let you shoot it if it did.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa let out a discreet sigh of relief. "Gosh, good. I-- forgot to ask that then and... well, just gotta make sure, right..."

She aimed again. It took her a few good seconds, but it looked like this time the lightning shot the branch Rosa was aiming, because she jumped in place and pointed. "I did it!"

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled and ruffled her hair.*

“Perfect!”

[fromcanvastolife]

Her smile was huge, but she tried to contain herself and be put and still. Her fingers still drummed on her palms gleefully. "Nice. Hmm. Now I just gotta do this quickier. And maybe with moving targets."

"What else should I learn? Would I know how to do anything else?"

There was someone else who inherited powers from her late wife, Rosa knew, but the thought of asking Lillith for anything gave the artist chills in her spine.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Let’s focus on this for now. A jack of all trades is only good if you can afford to miss the first few shots.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She nodded, "true. Now... what do I do?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“I’m gonna go down there and run at you as fast as I can and you’re gonna shoot me.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She seemed mildly intimidated. "But... this will hurt you..."

[waylay-managment-2]

“If it does, then you’re a very very good shot.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"... Okay. Okay, I can do this. Hmm, yes. Okay, you can go. I'm sure I'm not that good but we got to try anyway."

She nodded, hands neatly holded on her lap. "Let's go."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Alright!”

*they hopped down and ran through a spot in the trees where she could see them the whole time.*

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa nodded, waving at them. She could feel her own heart racing.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they waved back before stopping a ways away, turning around, and barreling towards her at full velocity.*

[fromcanvastolife]

The speed for sure scared Rosa, because she jumped back. She aimed at them and missed the first shot by a large margin, which singed the grass, but when the Manager was just a few meters from her, the godling released another shot. This one, however, was different, and instead of simply blasting at them, this lightning turned into a live wire thread and wrapped around their legs to release a shock.

Rosa let out a little yelp as if she wasn't expecting such an outcome herself.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they looked down at their legs in surprise, despite the fact their suit was catching fire and their hair was standing on end.*

“Amazing!”

[fromcanvastolife]

"T-Thank you! Y-you're catching fire!!" She pointed at them, eyes wide open.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they rolled around in the ground until the fire went out.*

[fromcanvastolife]

Considering they probably could snap their fingers and extinguish the fire, seeing the Manager rolling on the floor was very funny. Rosa chuckled covering her mouth.

"Did it hurt too bad? Oh gods, can't believe I really hit you. Not exactly how I was intending to, but I was more successful than the expected."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Oh no, it barely hurt at all.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"You're very durable." She shrugged and smiled proudly.

[waylay-managment-2]

“It’s scar tissue.”

[bloodredvelvett]

*a knock on Ro’s door. Casper was at work. Strange, what could this be for?*

@waylay-managment-2

Ro was in the middle of getting ready to go out; whoever the person at the door was, they were lucky to see him dressed up for once.

"Come in!"

[waylay-managment-2]

*Penelope opened the door.*

“We’re getting you a wedding dress.”

“Wrong. We’re helping you find something you like and giving you the experience of shopping for your wedding outfit with loved ones.”

[bloodredvelvett]

They jolted back in surprise: gods, that woman was scary, even when she wasn't trying to be... and a particularly aggressive door-opener.

Still, they were eager to find a party dress for the reception- one that would make Casper pinch himself, make them look and feel magical. It would never be the same as going shopping with their mum, but Ro couldn't be anything but grateful for the opportunity, anyways.

"Did Casper put you up to this? I wouldn't be surprised."

[waylay-managment-2]

“No, but the guy doesn’t shut up.”

“He said that sometimes you don’t feel like you’re as pretty as you are. His words. You deserve to. You make people here happy. You make him happy.”

“And you especially deserve to feel good on your wedding day.”

[bloodredvelvett]

Ro sighed and looked down. They knew Casper only shared his worries because he loved them and he wanted to see them thrive, yet they couldn't help but feel like Daisy and Penelope were only acting out of pity for that reason.

"Well- you know- it's only the odd day, it's barely even sometimes, I wouldn't be stressing about it, really."

[waylay-managment-2]

*Daisy sighed.*

“Look, it’s… it’s not just for that. It’s tradition.”

*Penelope nodded.*

“Weddings are for family. You deserve to have some form of it during planning.”

[bloodredvelvett]

"Yeah... that sounds nice. I'll be ready in a minute, you can just wait in here."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Of course.”

*Penelope closed the door.*

[bloodredvelvett]

They hadn't been planning on wearing any makeup before this, but, for the occasion, Ro decided to add some deep, shimmery red eyeliner to their look, along with a suitable lipstick.

"Where were you planning on going?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“I got clearance from Manny to go to an actual store in the living world.”

[bloodredvelvett]

"Ooh, lovely! What's my budget?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“None. it’s not illegal to make your own money if it’s magic and also from Manny.”

[bloodredvelvett]

"Oh! Lucky me, eh?"

Ro stood up to have one last look in the mirror; they were lucky they already felt attractive today.

"Alright, I should be ready. Take me to your finest boutique!"

[waylay-managment-2]

*Penelope nodded and pulled a mask on. She was wearing long pants and a long sleeved turtleneck to disguise her scars. Daisy, meanwhile, was just in regular clothing instead of her scrubs. They walked to the door.*

“Now there is one thing you need to understand. Neither me nor Penelope have lived past 1930, so we’re gonna sit back and tell you you look pretty while you make sure neither of us die.”

[bloodredvelvett]

"Oh, behave! You'll be fine! You might get some funny looks at first, but I promise nobody in the modern day would pay you any mind."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Rowan. I beleive you misunderstand. The last time I smelled modern perfume I choked on it.”

“Mannequins terrify me to a degree I am embarrassed to admit.”

“We are not worried about other people, we are worried about the existence of what Manny called ‘Department stores’”

[bloodredvelvett]

"Hey, I used to work in a shop! Have some respect for my career, will you?"

Ro chuckled to themselves, before bidding farewell to their cats with a peck on the forehead each, and following the two women (aunts? Stepmothers? Mentors? He wasn't too sure yet) out the door.

"Maybe I could find something for both of you, as well. You're invited to the wedding, after all..."

[waylay-managment-2]

“No need. I have a good dress and Penelope, by some miracle, found dress pants that aren’t unbearable.”

[bloodredvelvett]

"I'm sure you'll both look gorgeous.

Now, I was thinking something red. Elegant, but still fit for a night out, maybe with a slit up the side?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Gorgeous.”

*they approached a portal.*

“Ready?”

[bloodredvelvett]

"As I've ever been."

[waylay-managment-2]

*they stepped through the portal and into a parking lot.

A mall. And then on the other side of the street? A department store.*

[bloodredvelvett]

Ro tried their hardest to conceal their excitement - they hadn't seen a shopping centre in ages, after all - yet a smirk still managed to creep up on their face.

They pointed at a boutique across the road like a child in a toy shop,

"Can we try there first?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“You go wherever you want. We’ll follow.”

[bloodredvelvett]

Ro guided Daisy and Penelope down the zebra crossing, holding both their hands until they made it to the other side; two people who barely caught the invention of cars certainly weren't going to be used to modern ones.

"Here first."

They stepped into the boutique and (after a quick greeting) immediatley began to rifle through various dresses until they found a couple that suited their tastes.

[waylay-managment-2]

*Daisy and Penelope followed Ro around and did literally nothing else except hold each other’s hands and occasionally whisper to each other. Daisy looked at the dresses with an expression Ro had never seen. Because he’d never seen a woman be so happy people could wear low-cut tops and V-necks without getting killed.*

[bloodredvelvett]

Ro could somewhat sense Daisy's excitement, and hurried along to pick out a dress to show her.

It was a deep purple, with an open back and a halter neckline, cut in a v-shape down to the centre of their chest; the satin material hugged their upper half nicely, and flowed out at the bottom.

"What do you think? I'm not sure about the colour..."

[waylay-managment-2]

*she just smiled.*

“It’s perfect. It’ll go with your skin tone just as well as something wine colored would.”

[bloodredvelvett]

"Hrm....

Alright. I'll get it as a backup, but I could probably find something I'm happier with. I think red is the way to go, and I was looking for something a bit more sparkly."

[waylay-managment-2]

*Penelope looked around at the dresses.*

“Don’t get glitter. Just ends up itchy. Beading is better. But you have to pull on it a bit to check that it’s actually sewn in properly”

“And this is why I brought my lovely girlfriend who knows how to tell good cheap clothes from bad cheap clothes.”

[bloodredvelvett]

"Trust me, these are far from cheap. You could've bought a house back in your day with a pair of shoes from here."

[waylay-managment-2]

“We didn’t have houses, we had tenements.”

“Lovely, chill, he’s right.”

“Fine.”

[bloodredvelvett]

"A tenement then."

They rolled their eyes mockingly before they walked up to the register, and eventually out of the door.

"I need to see more options!"

[waylay-managment-2]

*they followed him.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*a chill runs up The Manager's spine, a sudden suffocating power that was unmistakably strong spreads throughout the waylay. The kind of power where the deity emitting it could easily hide, but is actively choosing to spread sight and influence within their office.*

*they, you are being watched, observed. And judged*

-⚜️ ( @rp-sideblog-incorporated )

*the paused, looking up from their work.*

“… hello?”

[rp-sideblog-incorporated]

*the energy in the air condenses. First golden eyes peer, then a pale body walks out from the energy surrounding it. The power in the room retreated into the being as he looks around. Pale tendrils around his head mimic hair fall around his shoulders, pale white patches lined in gold are blotted across his skin like marble vitiligo.*

*he considers The Manager for a moment*

Nyarlathotep? How unexpected.

*he says the name with mild contempt. the voice, the power behind it rings familiar. Though perhaps not the god from their universe, Kthanid's golden gaze is unmistakable. Though the body before them only has two eyes, he sees much more than that.*

[waylay-managment-2]

“I prefer The Manager. You?”

[rp-sideblog-incorporated]

Kthanid. Unlike you many faced gods I need not alias.

*he looks around, seeing further than the room allowed. He sneered.*

___

*Emcee awoke with a gasp within the infirmary, sitting up in a panic. His limbs were for the most part done healing, albeit the skin was still raw*

[waylay-managment-2]

“Why are you here?”

[rp-sideblog-incorporated]

I...

*a puzzled look crossed his face*

I heard crying.

*he seemed unsure of it himself, and was still eyeing the Manager distrustfully. His job was to keep outer gods to their own domains, banishing them from the physical planes of existence when they got too rowdy. Though he'd be cordial in The Manager's created Waylay, seeing as this place wasn't losing it's mind, that did not mean he trusted their intentions.*

___

*Emcee got up from the infirmary cot and stumbled forward, new legs wobbling at first before scrambling to get out. He recognized the chilling presence, though it had been centuries. He needed to find Lillith now.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they thought for a moment, sensing Emcee get up.*

“You heard right.”

*they gently reached down and pulled Lillith into their arms. She was invisible, energy wise. They’d put on so many blockers trying to find her was like trying to see through a glass of milk.*

[rp-sideblog-incorporated]

*Lillith stirred*

*Kthanid narrowed his eyes at the child. Both startled that he hadn't sensed her under the table and also suspicious. He would not make assumptions, but he had a hunch*

Who's child is that?

___

LILLITH!

LILLITH?

*Emcee was frantic, mildly terrified. He couldn't feel her, and he was only now noticing because he was awake enough to feel the lack of a second heartbeat.*

*he was out in the bar now running past and searching,*

[waylay-managment-2]

“A Nyarl named Emcee. But she doesn’t wish to be around him right now.”

[rp-sideblog-incorporated]

LILLITH!

*She startled awake as Emcee's voice boomed throughout the Waylay, claws digging into The Manager as she looked towards the door.*

*Kthanid calmly looked over at the door, then back at Lillith with a soft look.*

I am familiar with the snake. He's a thief.

*Lillith looked at Kthanid, and gold eyes met gold*

I'm taking her back.

[waylay-managment-2]

“We can discuss that in a safe place. Follow me.”

*they held Lillith tighter, walking down a staircase that wasn’t there before.*

“Shhh, shh honey. It’s okay. I won’t let him hurt you.”

[waylay-managment-2]

Rosa stopped by the Manager's side with slightly wide eyes and a serious face. Her brows were a little bit tensed up, and the green in her irises glowed just faintly. That was the face she made when she had made up her mind about something.

"I need you to teach me how to fight."

@fromcanvastolife 🖌️

*they looked at her in surprise, then nodded.*

“Against who?”

[fromcanvastolife]

She bit her lip. "I'm thinking more of a general thing. There isn't anyone specifically that I want to fight, but I was thinking... I don't wanna be completely helpless if I need to fight."

[waylay-managment-2]

*they looked at her.*

“Rosa. Do you need to fight Emcee, or are you anxious and need to feel like you can protect your girlfriend?”

[fromcanvastolife]

She blinked, kind of livid. Her eyes were wider and more worried. "W-why would I need to fight Emcee?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Because he’s horrible and we hate him.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She scratched her hand. "Did... did something happen that I do not know? I thought you guys were... on better terms with each other. Did he do something?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“No. I just found new information from the past.”

[fromcanvastolife]

So he didn't do anything new. He did do something, though.

"R... right. Uhm. I'm tempted to ask what it is, because he's friends with Candy, but... well, but he's not the reason why I'm here, no. I wouldn't call it as much as defending my girlfriend, because... well, self explanatory, considering who she is. Though of course, if she needed my help, I'd be glad to help. But... this is more of a general thing. I... just don't want to be helpless."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Fair. In that case, what weapon would you like.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Hmm... I'm not sure. I'm not big on weapons. Can't I... hmm just attack with magic? From... a distance maybe?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Absolutely.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She smiled, excited. "Nice! Okay, that's great. Can you teach me?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Absolutely”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Great! When can we start?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Right now, get on top of a building.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She nodded, then stopped to ponder. "Any building in the Waylay?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Yes.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Right!" She raised her hand and snapped her fingers. Suddenly Rosa was on top of an utility shack outside. She looked around, waiting for the Manager.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Good.”

*they were behind her.*

[fromcanvastolife]

"You're so fast," she chuckled, facing them excitedly.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Correct.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa blinked a few times, trying to contain the urge to bounce in place. "Okay. What do we do now?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Hit a tree.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Slowly, Rosa brought a hand forward. It looked like she was picking a tree to aim. "Can it be a branch? I... don't wanna kill the whole tree..."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Sure.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She aimed and concentrated. It took her a couple of seconds, but suddenly a bright blue light left her arm, followed by a thin lightning that lunged forward and hit the end of a branch.

Rosa hissed, waving her hand. "Ugh! It burns."

[waylay-managment-2]

“So find something that doesn’t.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Uhm, well... the problem is that... i fear that's all I know how to do so far, in the matter of attacking."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Okay. So what do you know that doesn’t burn you and doesn’t cause harm?”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Hmm... I know how to paint. And... to pull things from the canvas. But that's not exactly offensive magic. Not directly."

Rosa bit her lip. She was hoping she could blast things using her powers. That would be cool, if only she knew how to not get burned by her own attack.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Paintball gun.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Paintball gun? What's that?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“You hit people with hardened balls of paint that explode on impact.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She pondered for a moment. "But is this... lethal? Does it hurt? If someone was trying to kill me, could I defend myself with hardened paint?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Oh it hurt like a bitch.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Does it... kill, though?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Rosa, you’re a god. You can make it kill if you want.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"But how? I... I'm not sure how. Just like I'm not sure how to blast the lightning without burning myself."

[waylay-managment-2]

*they narrowed their eyes.*

“You don’t just… know? Like a baby giraffe?”

[fromcanvastolife]

She scratched her head, clearly confused. "Like....? What aboit the baby giraffes?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Unlike human babies, baby giraffes are born being able to do everything they need to do to survive. They can run and eat food and do anything. I was like that too. As soon as I existed I knew how to use my magic. Do you not?”

[fromcanvastolife]

She shook her head. "No, I... I don't think so. Unless all I do now is all I can do. Hmm..."

[waylay-managment-2]

“How did you learn about the lightning?”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Hmmm... I'm not sure. I saw Nillah's Lillith doing it a few times and thought... maybe I could do it too? But she doesn't burn herself."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Okay. So, how did you teach yourself too?”

[fromcanvastolife]

"I guess... Well, I saw Lillith was messing with you and thought I might try it. It worked, but I don't know how explain, I just wanted it to happen really bad, and it kind of worked? Something clicked, but I can't explain why or how. It just made sense at the time. But nobody ever explained much, Nillah said I didn't really need to know any of this because she'd... always protect me."

[waylay-managment-2]

*they thought for A moment.*

“Try and shoot the tree again. This time, think of it like real lightning.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Real lightning... coming out of my hand... okay..." she murmured, more to herself than to them, and aimed again, with the same hand. She kept staring at the branch for a few seconds, seemingly concentrating. This time, something occurred to her, and there was a chill that ran up her spine, from the floor to the tip of her finger when a blast of electricity left it and destroyed the branch.

Rosa shook her hand once more. "Still burns. But a bit less so, now!"

[waylay-managment-2]

“Good. Now, lightning comes from the ground to the sky. Is that what’s happening here?”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Hmm, I think so!" Rosa nodded. "I tried to think of a way to isolate my arm from the blast, too. I thought of a little bubble around my arm."

[waylay-managment-2]

“This time, try and think of your arm as a copper circuit. All the energy absorbed back.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"But if I absorb it back, won't it hurt me as well?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“No. Copper isn’t in pain when it’s used as a conductor.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"Okay. I'm copper... Hmmm..." She aimed again. It looked like Rosa was concentrating on what The Manager said, because this time, she didn't quite hit the branch, but rather quickly looked at her hand, eyes widening. "It didn't hurt as much. It was more like... tingling."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Exactly.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"I just have to... hit the target, next time. Damn, you really have think of multiple things to release an attack."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Which is exactly why most humans and lower gods don’t use much magic. It’s incredibly difficult unless you have the extra brain space.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She narrowed her eyes, smirking. "I'll make it happen, though." Her eyes darted to the tree-target.

"In another target. That poor tree has suffered enough from my wrath."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Eh. Woodpeckers get some cooked foot for once.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa chuckled, swaying and then turning around to glance at them.

"Let us find another target... hmm, there are more trees there." She aimed, closing an eye... and then stopped, lowering her hand. "Wil doesn't feel that, right? It's just the building."

[waylay-managment-2]

“No, Wil doesn’t feel it. I wouldn’t have let you shoot it if it did.”

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa let out a discreet sigh of relief. "Gosh, good. I-- forgot to ask that then and... well, just gotta make sure, right..."

She aimed again. It took her a few good seconds, but it looked like this time the lightning shot the branch Rosa was aiming, because she jumped in place and pointed. "I did it!"

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled and ruffled her hair.*

“Perfect!”

[fromcanvastolife]

Her smile was huge, but she tried to contain herself and be put and still. Her fingers still drummed on her palms gleefully. "Nice. Hmm. Now I just gotta do this quickier. And maybe with moving targets."

"What else should I learn? Would I know how to do anything else?"

There was someone else who inherited powers from her late wife, Rosa knew, but the thought of asking Lillith for anything gave the artist chills in her spine.

[waylay-managment-2]

“Let’s focus on this for now. A jack of all trades is only good if you can afford to miss the first few shots.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She nodded, "true. Now... what do I do?"

[waylay-managment-2]

“I’m gonna go down there and run at you as fast as I can and you’re gonna shoot me.”

[fromcanvastolife]

She seemed mildly intimidated. "But... this will hurt you..."

[waylay-managment-2]

“If it does, then you’re a very very good shot.”

[fromcanvastolife]

"... Okay. Okay, I can do this. Hmm, yes. Okay, you can go. I'm sure I'm not that good but we got to try anyway."

She nodded, hands neatly holded on her lap. "Let's go."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Alright!”

*they hopped down and ran through a spot in the trees where she could see them the whole time.*

[fromcanvastolife]

Rosa nodded, waving at them. She could feel her own heart racing.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they waved back before stopping a ways away, turning around, and barreling towards her at full velocity.*

[fromcanvastolife]

The speed for sure scared Rosa, because she jumped back. She aimed at them and missed the first shot by a large margin, which singed the grass, but when the Manager was just a few meters from her, the godling released another shot. This one, however, was different, and instead of simply blasting at them, this lightning turned into a live wire thread and wrapped around their legs to release a shock.

Rosa let out a little yelp as if she wasn't expecting such an outcome herself.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they looked down at their legs in surprise, despite the fact their suit was catching fire and their hair was standing on end.*

“Amazing!”

[fromcanvastolife]

"T-Thank you! Y-you're catching fire!!" She pointed at them, eyes wide open.

[waylay-managment-2]

*they rolled around in the ground until the fire went out.*

[fromcanvastolife]

Considering they probably could snap their fingers and extinguish the fire, seeing the Manager rolling on the floor was very funny. Rosa chuckled covering her mouth.

"Did it hurt too bad? Oh gods, can't believe I really hit you. Not exactly how I was intending to, but I was more successful than the expected."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Oh no, it barely hurt at all.”

[waylay-managment-2]

*Its eyes widened and it tried to fight tooth and nail to get away from the machine. Glen opened its mouth to protest only to have to cover its mouth when a cacophony of coughing erupted.*

“See? That’s why. It’s okay. You’ll be okay.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

[waylay-managment-2]

*The Manager sighed.*

“Here. I’ll go first.”

*they hopped up on the table. Daisy looked at them.*

“Dude…”

“It’s not harmful.”

“I have to sanitize it.”

“You have other machines.”

“Fine.”

*she wiped down the tube and they opened their mouth.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*Glen stared, bewildered. He continued to shake its head slightly in disagreement before coughing. This time, he couldn’t cover in time and mimi ended up in the splatter zone. Her nose wrinkled slightly, letting go of it.*

“Elgh…ew.”

[waylay-managment-2]

“Okay, no time, come here kid.”

*she pulled him to the machine.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It yelped and tried to sprint away, hands covering the port on its neck. The coughing continued, littering on the floor of her infirmary. If it could get far, Glen aimed to go to the lobby.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*The Manager caught it.*

“Buddy this will make you feel better and we don’t have time”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*Its hands never left the port on its throat as it flung its body about. The kid coughed, staining the pristine white favorite with dark goo.*

“Glen, please, calm down,” he pleaded, concerned etched in his brow.

*it had no effect.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*The Manager held it still, but didn’t force its hands away from its throat.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It shook its head, pleading silently as coughs continued to erupt and the goo only grew into chunk about the size of a golf ball. Glen’s hands didn’t move as it gasped for air between coughs.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they took it’s hand away.*

“I’m sorry.”

*they held its head still and held its hands away from its neck as Daisy put in the tube again.*

“Just one deep breath okay?”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It couldn’t stay still, not when it felt every ounce of power it had over its own body slip away. Any autonomy to say ‘no’ to this medical procedure slipped between its fingers and it was left with nothing but being held still. No matter how much it wormed around and shook its head, that didn’t matter.

This would happen. The tube would go into its neck and it could only cough up larger and larger chunks while tears rolled down its cheeks. Helpless. Thats all it was.

It was an awful thing for the grandparents to watch, faces contorted. The kid couldn’t even take a deep breath between the hyperventilating and continuous coughing.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*Daisy turned it on for one second, then turned it off again. It sucked up a lot of good, which would hopefully allow it to breathe better.*

“Hey bud. I’m sorry but I need you to breathe.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*Its nails dig into its own palms as it couldn’t even suck in any air to hyperventilate. The breathing came easier but so did the frantic breathing and approaching panic attack.

It was sobbing and trembling and writhing around in their hold to get free. The kid was a mess and unable to take any instructions.

It clearly didn’t want this to happen! It didn’t want this! It said no over and over but they’re just going on and on and on and they don’t caretheydontcarewhatiywantsanditsaidnoitdidntwantthis!*

[waylay-managment-2]

“I’m so sorry little one.”

*she turned it on again. Only one second again.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*More gunk came out but so did more panic. Its eyes clenched shut as it tried to rid itself of the goo while continuing to live in a desperate fight or flight.*

[waylay-managment-2]

“Hey. Hey. You’re okay. Feel how easy it is to breathe now?”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It shook its head because no, it was hyperventilating and couldn’t get enough air into its lungs and please don’t turn on the machine again. It was still coughing, albeit less, but the coughing was still existing.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*she didn’t turn it back on yet.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*All it could do was hyperventilating and cough, occasionally whining and it tried to break its hands free from their hold at the very least. The panic never subsided as it continued to stay on edge, expecting it to turn on again

Mimi tried to help by wrapping the quilt around it but it hardly even caused a dent.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they just waited for a moment.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*In that moment, it didn’t get any better. It was more focused on trying to get its hands free but that was the only change.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*she’s forced to turn the machine on for another second and then immediately turn it off again.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*When it turned on, the panic shot up to the point of it trying to kick at the machine.

It. Said. No! TURNITOFFTURNITOFF!*

[waylay-managment-2]

*and she did.*

“Honey. You will die if we don’t do this.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*But trying to reason that to an eight year old kid in the midst of a panic attack and coughing it couldn’t understand did little good. If anything, the idea of death only made things worse as it tried to through the lower half of its body to kick at the machine.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*The Manager pulled it back a little but.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It moved onto trying to using the bottom of its feet to try and the tube between them. If they allowed it, it’d try to tug it out that way while contorted in an odd position.

Out. Out. Get it out.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*Daisy got it out.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It was beyond thankful but the panic attack persisted, eyes clenched shut as it breathed at a rapid speed fit for a race car. Glen continued trying to get free from Manny’s hold as its heart pounded in its ears.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they didn’t let it go.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*And that did it no favors as it writhed about. Every single word was caught in its throat about begging to be let go but the message was clear enough from its body. If the tube was out then it should also be allowed to go free.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*but the tube would soon have to go back in.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*The grandparents didn’t understand this yet, not knowledgeable of medicine like they were.*

“hey, hey, let it go. There’s no need to keep it,” she wasn’t scolding but her words did carry the weight of concern.

*Glen nodded in agreement as another round of coughs broke his frantic breathing.*

[waylay-managment-2]

“We have to put the tube back in in a minute, the goo still isn’t all out.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It shook its head, now trying to snap its teeth around Manny’s hand. That only resulted in some goo ending up on their skin as well.*

“Ah…” she frowned.

[waylay-managment-2]

“I’m so sorry.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“Glen, no biting!” He stood up, trying to hold its head away while not getting hit by coughing.

*It only protested more as tears flooded its face and snot dribbled from its nose. Pleaseletitgopleasepleaseplease.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they couldn’t.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*The panic only persisted as their body squirmed, head firmly held by papa and arms held by Manny.*

“It’s hard, I know, but this is for your health.”

*BUT. IT. SAID. NO!*

[waylay-managment-2]

“Dear. I’m sorry. Because I know this violates your wants and that’s not okay, but this is your life. This is something you will die without. And for things like that, it’s more important to keep you alive than to keep you feeling safe.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*But to a kid, those words didn’t mean too much. In a different state of mind, maybe, it could understand. Right now, it was just fight or flight with one thing on its mind: getting away.*

“I hate you.”

*it spewed the words like venom as if that’d make any difference in its fate.*

[waylay-managment-2]

“I know.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It whined and flung its head back, smacking their face with the back of its skull.*

“GLEN!” He held its head tighter, only causing more distress

She sighed, “Is it okay yet? It’s not coughing much anymore.”

*This was impossible to watch.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*it caught them tight in the nose, which started bleeding, but they looked fine.*

“Yes, but you need to stay by it.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

She nodded and got up to grab some paper towel, “Of course.”

“I’m so sorry about it.”

*Mimi came over and guided their head to lead forward slightly while placing the paper towels to their nose. She scratched their back gently with her nails while checking to see if their suit got dirty. It’d be easy enough for her to bleach.

Glen stilled, hopeful to be released. Cmon, please.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they gently let it down on the cot.*

“It’s okay. I deserved it.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*The kid’s sobbing and hyperventilating only persisted as it wrapped the quilt around itself securely. Mimi and papa shared a glance followed by mutual understanding. Papa takes care of one kid, she takes care of the other.

Mimi continued to hold the paper towels there for them, gently guiding the suit’s jacket off with her other hand.*

“Would hate for this to get dirty…” she mumbled.

*She placed it off to the side and placed a hand on their back to lead them to the sink.*

“And no, you didn’t. No one deserves violence.”

*Meanwhile, Papa was whispering soft words to Glen about how he knew this was scary but he did so good. They were just trying to help it. The sobbing kid was scooped into his lap, rocked side to side like a baby.*

[waylay-managment-2]

“Really, I’m fine. It’s just a bloody nose it’s not even broken.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“Hun, I don’t care if it’s broken or not, you still got hurt,” she sighed.

*Her nose wrinkled upon seeing the stained on their buttoned up shirt. She was grabbing more paper towels to replace the ones they were bleeding through.*

“Can you take that off for me? It’s better to rinse those out early. I’ll let water run over it in the sink.”

[waylay-managment-2]

*they look the paper towels and, with the attitude of someone who had to deal with this regularly, started packing them in tight enough that they didn’t have to hold them there and could still have full use of both hands.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

Mimi nodded at their ability and gestured to the shirt, “Now, that? I’ll get you some really comfy PJs back home.”

[waylay-managment-2]

“That’s not necessarily, I have other shirts.”

*they had other copies of the exact same shirt.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“I know you have other shirts but the fabric is super soft and fluffy. Trust me.”

Let her care for you, god dammit.

“And I still need to wash out that stain for you. I’d hate for this shirt to go to waste.”

[waylay-managment-2]

“That’s not necessary.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“Is it not necessary or do you not want me to? Because that’s two very different things. If you don’t think it’s necessary, I’m doing it anyway.“

[waylay-managment-2]

*they sighed.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“Yeap, that’s what I thought. Hand over the shirt,” she grinned.

“I’ll go grab those pjs for you in a second.”

[waylay-managment-2]

*they stopped and fidgeted with their sleeve for a moment.*

“… I’d rather give it to you after I’m able to get changed.”

*she’d freak at the scars.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*She nodded, choosing to respect their boundary. That wasn’t something she would push on.*

“Fine by me. I’ll be right back.”

*She left and when she returned it was with a dragon onesie with tiny wings on the back. The fabric was incredibly soft.*

“We were all going to match but we got the wrong size for papa. Glen is obsessed with dragons. It looks like it’ll fit you though. You want me to turn around?”

[waylay-managment-2]

“No, there’s a bathroom.”

*they walked away.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*She nodded and waited patiently, turning the sink onto warm and glancing around for detergent.

Glen was settling down but papa also decided to stand right outside of the infirmary. He thought getting away from the chaos could do some good.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they came out in the pajamas, but still had their gloves on, and handed her their jacket.*

“Thank you.”

—

*Daisy sat down, not next to blip, but near enough.*

“Hey bud. Can I talk to you for a minute?”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“Of course!”

*She ran it under the sink to get as much blood as she could out of it now. She’d still bleach it once she was home but this made the job much easier.*

“You look adorable in that,” she grinned. “I could just put you in my pocket.”

—

*Blip tensed and nodded hesitantly. A no didn’t matter before so it likely wouldn’t now.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled.*

“Thank you.”

—

*she waited for a second to get her words about her.*

“… I want you to know that I didn’t want to do that. And I want you to know that I will never do that again unless your life is one the line. Your life was on the line and I was scared you were going to suffocate. And that’s why I did that.

“And I know that’s not okay. And I’m sorry. But I promise that nothing I do will ever hurt you. It might be uncomfortable, but it will never hurt you. I promise. And I know it’s scary. But I’m going to try and make it less scary, okay?”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*While the sink ran, she went over and pinched both of their cheeks into her fingers. She moved their head back and forth playfully.*

“Awww, who’s a little cutie patootie? You are!” She was having a blast, maternal instincts going ham.

—

*The kid whined and curled into papa more who rocked it gently. Its expression was contorted and he sighed.*

“Is it a no-words time?”

*It nodded slowly. He frowned and mouthed to Daisy, ‘sorry. Don’t know why this happens’ with a shrug.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they stifled a laugh.*

—

*she nodded.*

“It’s okay. Sometimes words are hard for a lot of my friends. I get it.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

[waylay-managment-2]

“I am relaxed.”

*liar.*

—

“Y’know, when my friend gets like this, he likes to let his feelings out in tiny ways that don’t matter.”

*she went and grabbed a bit of paper and a pencil.*

“Like drawing, or even just stabbing the paper over and over again if he doesn’t like to draw that day. And you don’t have to use it, but I thought you might want to have a way to get your feelings out without words.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“C’mon, no, you aren’t. How about we get you to lay down for a bit, m’kay?”

*She tried to lead him out of the infirmary.*

—

*It took the paper and put it against its thigh to write. The kid drew a dragon and showed it to her. The wings were massive for its body but it was clear it’s drawn plenty of dragons in its time alive.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they shook their head and did not allow themselves to leave.*

“Absolutely not!”

*they turned to Mimi.*

“I understand and respect what you’re trying to do but I wear a suit for a reason. No one judges anyone else in a doctor’s office, but I will never hear the end of it if someone sees me in this in my office.”

—

*she smiled.*

“It’s very good.”

*then she squinted at it.*

“… is that from… what’s it called, one kid told me about it… Wings of Fire?”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

She sighed with a slight smile, understanding, “let’s get you to lay down in the infirmary then? At the very least you need to take your mind off of the chaos that’s been happening here. Relax.”

*She probably needed to as well.*

“I won’t publically humiliate you in front of all your friends,” she teased

—

*Its eyes lit up and it nodded ferociously. The kid pointed to the basket mimi brought that contained a book set that’s likely seen better days. It was taped together in some parts but it was Glen’s.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they went and sat down on a cot, which was honestly a more familiar sensation than sitting down on their own bed.*

—

*she smiled.*

“Well, you’ll have to show me sometime.”

*she looked down at its shirt.*

“Hey. Do your lungs feel okay? Feel like you need to cough?”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*Mimi went over and tucked them in as snug as a bug in a rug.*

“Does a nap sound good? I could get you some tea or coffee?”

*Decaf, of course. No need to get something to worsen their anxiety.*

—

*It shook its head. Even if it did feel the need to cough it wouldn’t tell her. It wanted nothing to do with that evil machine.

Meanwhile, its shirt and vest were gross with goo. A ton was projectiled onto it, especially in the elbows of the flowy sleeves.

The kid went back to drawing.*

[waylay-managment-2]

“I’m okay. Why don’t go help Glen get changed into clean clothes?”

—

*she thought for a moment.*

“Look bud, I know it’s uncomfortable, but it’s only for a few seconds, and it’ll make everything feel so much better after. It’s like getting a shot. It hurts and it’s bad, but it protects you from worse things.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“We’re dividing and conquering. I take care of one kid while he takes care of the other. Glen would get too overwhelmed if we all just swarm around it.”

*She sat down on the edge of their bed.*

“My husband and Daisy are more than capable of taking care of it. You,” she booped their nose, “just relax.”

—

*Its nose wrinkled and it doodled a dragon giving a thumbs down at her before writing in messy handwriting.*

“I didn’t want it!”

[waylay-managment-2]

“I know. But you needed it. And if we didn’t give it to you anyway, you would’ve not been able to breathe again.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It pouted and shook its head before standing off of papa’s lap. Glen hated the doctors and it’s only ever been to an office twice now! It was gonna get chicken tenders and sit in the corner to doodle if it had any say in it.

Stupid, stupid, stupid.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*Daisy sighed.*

“Can I bribe you?”

—

“No, really, I’m okay.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*The kid raised an eyebrow, pausing at the door. Maybe, it could be.*

—

She sighed, “What do you have against chilling and relaxing?”

[waylay-managment-2]

“I’ll give you whatever you want if you agree to not fight me the next time you need this.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It was still emotionally charged and instead just stormed out. No! It didn’t want this at all! It was awful!

That strategy may work later.

Papa sighed and shook his head.*

“I’m sorry about it.”

[waylay-managment-2]

*Daisy just pointed out.*

“It’s fine. Just follow it and bring it back once it starts coughing.”

—

“That’s how people get hurt.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“Will do.”

*He left and followed it into the lobby where it plopped down, waiting to order. Some Kraft Mac and cheese would be amazing right now. Papa sat next to it and Glen pretended he wasn’t there at all.*

—

She tilted her head, “What do you mean?”

[waylay-managment-2]

*Casper walked over.*

“Hello, what can I get you?”

—

“I mean that I can stop people from getting hurt! I can make sure everyone is okay! But only if I’m awake.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“Kraft Mac and Cheese and a new doctor,” got scribbled onto the piece of paper.

*He sighed and rubbed his temple, grumbling an apology.*

—

“Other people can do that too. Others are perfectly capable of making sure things don’t fall apart. You can’t take care of things if you’re the one falling apart.”

*She tucked a stray strand of hair behind their ear.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*Casper sighed.*

“Daisy had to do something you didn’t wanna do, huh?”

—

“Yes, I can. I’ve done it before.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It nodded and pointed to its neck, huffing in displeasure.*

“Mean.”

“Necessary.”

—

“Honey, you’re worrying me,” she sighed and rested a hand on their shoulder.

“Every single second you’ve had with me has been dedicated to helping another individual. I’m the same way. I go and I go to keep my life and my family’s together until I come home a wreck. It’s not healthy, I know that, but it’s what I thought I had to do. I always told my husband to relax and I’d handle all the housework on top of my grueling job.”

*Her expression soured just remembering it.*

“He always fought me, just like I’m doing to you right now, and I said the same thing. I thought I was fine and I could just keep going but I was just doing more harm than good. Sure, all the work was getting done but I was exhausting myself in the process and worrying every single person I love.”

*She readjusted how she sat, other hand messing with her hair.*

“I was fine until I wasn’t. I ended up passing out at my job and bashed my head open against the floor. When I woke up, I think I saw the most concerned expressions from every person I cared about. The guilt was so heavy. What I thought was helping just ended up hurting them and myself. They forced me to relax after that one and yeah, I deserved that.

In the process, I was passing this onto my children. They’re…practically husks. One of my biggest regrets as a parent is not fixing that tendency much earlier.”

*She couldn’t look at them. Her voice was cracking.*

“Kids are impressionable. They take in what they see and when they see you running yourself to bare bones, they’ll grow up to do the same. If you don’t choose to relax for yourself, do it for your kids. Dont make my mistake.”

[waylay-managment-2]

Tw for talk of suicide and sh

“I figured. She’s a nice lady, but sometimes she has to do things that aren’t nice to help people.”

—

“I don’t let them see it. I never do. And I’m doing it for them!”

*they sat up, looking down at their still gloved hands.*

“I have to monitor Cleo while he’s playing or he could hurt someone because his old dad never taught him better, I have to stay awake while Iris sleeps or he’ll be sucked into a nightmare again, Lili needs help with her powers, Jackson still flinches when he sees to much, and Natalie is going to commit suicide if I’m not there to stop her.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“She’s not nice! She wasn’t listening to me at all and it was scary and I couldn’t breathe!” Was written with a “>:(“

—

*She nodded, listening to every word with pure understanding. It was a tale that was as old as time. She hasn’t that exact circumstance but she didn’t need to in order to connect. Her voice was gentle, massaging their shoulder tenderly.*

“Who do you have to support you with this?”

*She was gearing up for another speech.*

[waylay-managment-2]

“And when she stopped, you could breathe. Because she was trying to help you breathe.”

—

“Lili can help Iris with dreams, but only if she can reach them, and sometimes she can’t. Penelope has babysat before but Cleo doesn’t like her anymore because she made him see the doctor, and he’ll run away and hurt her. Jackson is a grown man, but he still struggles and only lets me help him because I’m his dad. I would have help with Natalie but her actual mother hates my guts and refuses to listen when I try and tell her things that could help out.”

[waylay-managment-2]

*Evelyn knocked once and opened the door to The Manager's office.*

"I have an idea."

-🏔

“Oh?”

[soaring-the-icy-skies]

"Well, technically it's Naga's idea, but that's not important. You know how Glory is trying to get used to being around you? What if I went to visit her with you to act as a sort of buffer between her and you? It might make her feel more comfortable if I'm there, too."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Amazing!”

[soaring-the-icy-skies]

"I know. She and Naga talked about it, because apparently Naga just up and walked out of the infirmary one day, but she told me that Glory was okay with that. If you don't have anything better to do, we can go visit Glory."

[waylay-managment-2]

“Of course. Oh— actually.”

*they took out a collar and regular necklace from their desk one was a pink choker with a little silver tag on it. The other was a silver necklace with a rose quartz stone.*

“So we match!”

[waylay-managment-2]

*Its eyes widened and it tried to fight tooth and nail to get away from the machine. Glen opened its mouth to protest only to have to cover its mouth when a cacophony of coughing erupted.*

“See? That’s why. It’s okay. You’ll be okay.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

[waylay-managment-2]

*The Manager sighed.*

“Here. I’ll go first.”

*they hopped up on the table. Daisy looked at them.*

“Dude…”

“It’s not harmful.”

“I have to sanitize it.”

“You have other machines.”

“Fine.”

*she wiped down the tube and they opened their mouth.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*Glen stared, bewildered. He continued to shake its head slightly in disagreement before coughing. This time, he couldn’t cover in time and mimi ended up in the splatter zone. Her nose wrinkled slightly, letting go of it.*

“Elgh…ew.”

[waylay-managment-2]

“Okay, no time, come here kid.”

*she pulled him to the machine.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It yelped and tried to sprint away, hands covering the port on its neck. The coughing continued, littering on the floor of her infirmary. If it could get far, Glen aimed to go to the lobby.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*The Manager caught it.*

“Buddy this will make you feel better and we don’t have time”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*Its hands never left the port on its throat as it flung its body about. The kid coughed, staining the pristine white favorite with dark goo.*

“Glen, please, calm down,” he pleaded, concerned etched in his brow.

*it had no effect.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*The Manager held it still, but didn’t force its hands away from its throat.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It shook its head, pleading silently as coughs continued to erupt and the goo only grew into chunk about the size of a golf ball. Glen’s hands didn’t move as it gasped for air between coughs.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they took it’s hand away.*

“I’m sorry.”

*they held its head still and held its hands away from its neck as Daisy put in the tube again.*

“Just one deep breath okay?”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It couldn’t stay still, not when it felt every ounce of power it had over its own body slip away. Any autonomy to say ‘no’ to this medical procedure slipped between its fingers and it was left with nothing but being held still. No matter how much it wormed around and shook its head, that didn’t matter.

This would happen. The tube would go into its neck and it could only cough up larger and larger chunks while tears rolled down its cheeks. Helpless. Thats all it was.

It was an awful thing for the grandparents to watch, faces contorted. The kid couldn’t even take a deep breath between the hyperventilating and continuous coughing.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*Daisy turned it on for one second, then turned it off again. It sucked up a lot of good, which would hopefully allow it to breathe better.*

“Hey bud. I’m sorry but I need you to breathe.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*Its nails dig into its own palms as it couldn’t even suck in any air to hyperventilate. The breathing came easier but so did the frantic breathing and approaching panic attack.

It was sobbing and trembling and writhing around in their hold to get free. The kid was a mess and unable to take any instructions.

It clearly didn’t want this to happen! It didn’t want this! It said no over and over but they’re just going on and on and on and they don’t caretheydontcarewhatiywantsanditsaidnoitdidntwantthis!*

[waylay-managment-2]

“I’m so sorry little one.”

*she turned it on again. Only one second again.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*More gunk came out but so did more panic. Its eyes clenched shut as it tried to rid itself of the goo while continuing to live in a desperate fight or flight.*

[waylay-managment-2]

“Hey. Hey. You’re okay. Feel how easy it is to breathe now?”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It shook its head because no, it was hyperventilating and couldn’t get enough air into its lungs and please don’t turn on the machine again. It was still coughing, albeit less, but the coughing was still existing.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*she didn’t turn it back on yet.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*All it could do was hyperventilating and cough, occasionally whining and it tried to break its hands free from their hold at the very least. The panic never subsided as it continued to stay on edge, expecting it to turn on again

Mimi tried to help by wrapping the quilt around it but it hardly even caused a dent.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they just waited for a moment.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*In that moment, it didn’t get any better. It was more focused on trying to get its hands free but that was the only change.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*she’s forced to turn the machine on for another second and then immediately turn it off again.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*When it turned on, the panic shot up to the point of it trying to kick at the machine.

It. Said. No! TURNITOFFTURNITOFF!*

[waylay-managment-2]

*and she did.*

“Honey. You will die if we don’t do this.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*But trying to reason that to an eight year old kid in the midst of a panic attack and coughing it couldn’t understand did little good. If anything, the idea of death only made things worse as it tried to through the lower half of its body to kick at the machine.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*The Manager pulled it back a little but.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It moved onto trying to using the bottom of its feet to try and the tube between them. If they allowed it, it’d try to tug it out that way while contorted in an odd position.

Out. Out. Get it out.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*Daisy got it out.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It was beyond thankful but the panic attack persisted, eyes clenched shut as it breathed at a rapid speed fit for a race car. Glen continued trying to get free from Manny’s hold as its heart pounded in its ears.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they didn’t let it go.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*And that did it no favors as it writhed about. Every single word was caught in its throat about begging to be let go but the message was clear enough from its body. If the tube was out then it should also be allowed to go free.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*but the tube would soon have to go back in.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*The grandparents didn’t understand this yet, not knowledgeable of medicine like they were.*

“hey, hey, let it go. There’s no need to keep it,” she wasn’t scolding but her words did carry the weight of concern.

*Glen nodded in agreement as another round of coughs broke his frantic breathing.*

[waylay-managment-2]

“We have to put the tube back in in a minute, the goo still isn’t all out.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It shook its head, now trying to snap its teeth around Manny’s hand. That only resulted in some goo ending up on their skin as well.*

“Ah…” she frowned.

[waylay-managment-2]

“I’m so sorry.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“Glen, no biting!” He stood up, trying to hold its head away while not getting hit by coughing.

*It only protested more as tears flooded its face and snot dribbled from its nose. Pleaseletitgopleasepleaseplease.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they couldn’t.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*The panic only persisted as their body squirmed, head firmly held by papa and arms held by Manny.*

“It’s hard, I know, but this is for your health.”

*BUT. IT. SAID. NO!*

[waylay-managment-2]

“Dear. I’m sorry. Because I know this violates your wants and that’s not okay, but this is your life. This is something you will die without. And for things like that, it’s more important to keep you alive than to keep you feeling safe.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*But to a kid, those words didn’t mean too much. In a different state of mind, maybe, it could understand. Right now, it was just fight or flight with one thing on its mind: getting away.*

“I hate you.”

*it spewed the words like venom as if that’d make any difference in its fate.*

[waylay-managment-2]

“I know.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It whined and flung its head back, smacking their face with the back of its skull.*

“GLEN!” He held its head tighter, only causing more distress

She sighed, “Is it okay yet? It’s not coughing much anymore.”

*This was impossible to watch.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*it caught them tight in the nose, which started bleeding, but they looked fine.*

“Yes, but you need to stay by it.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

She nodded and got up to grab some paper towel, “Of course.”

“I’m so sorry about it.”

*Mimi came over and guided their head to lead forward slightly while placing the paper towels to their nose. She scratched their back gently with her nails while checking to see if their suit got dirty. It’d be easy enough for her to bleach.

Glen stilled, hopeful to be released. Cmon, please.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they gently let it down on the cot.*

“It’s okay. I deserved it.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*The kid’s sobbing and hyperventilating only persisted as it wrapped the quilt around itself securely. Mimi and papa shared a glance followed by mutual understanding. Papa takes care of one kid, she takes care of the other.

Mimi continued to hold the paper towels there for them, gently guiding the suit’s jacket off with her other hand.*

“Would hate for this to get dirty…” she mumbled.

*She placed it off to the side and placed a hand on their back to lead them to the sink.*

“And no, you didn’t. No one deserves violence.”

*Meanwhile, Papa was whispering soft words to Glen about how he knew this was scary but he did so good. They were just trying to help it. The sobbing kid was scooped into his lap, rocked side to side like a baby.*

[waylay-managment-2]

“Really, I’m fine. It’s just a bloody nose it’s not even broken.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“Hun, I don’t care if it’s broken or not, you still got hurt,” she sighed.

*Her nose wrinkled upon seeing the stained on their buttoned up shirt. She was grabbing more paper towels to replace the ones they were bleeding through.*

“Can you take that off for me? It’s better to rinse those out early. I’ll let water run over it in the sink.”

[waylay-managment-2]

*they look the paper towels and, with the attitude of someone who had to deal with this regularly, started packing them in tight enough that they didn’t have to hold them there and could still have full use of both hands.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

Mimi nodded at their ability and gestured to the shirt, “Now, that? I’ll get you some really comfy PJs back home.”

[waylay-managment-2]

“That’s not necessarily, I have other shirts.”

*they had other copies of the exact same shirt.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“I know you have other shirts but the fabric is super soft and fluffy. Trust me.”

Let her care for you, god dammit.

“And I still need to wash out that stain for you. I’d hate for this shirt to go to waste.”

[waylay-managment-2]

“That’s not necessary.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“Is it not necessary or do you not want me to? Because that’s two very different things. If you don’t think it’s necessary, I’m doing it anyway.“

[waylay-managment-2]

*they sighed.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“Yeap, that’s what I thought. Hand over the shirt,” she grinned.

“I’ll go grab those pjs for you in a second.”

[waylay-managment-2]

*they stopped and fidgeted with their sleeve for a moment.*

“… I’d rather give it to you after I’m able to get changed.”

*she’d freak at the scars.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*She nodded, choosing to respect their boundary. That wasn’t something she would push on.*

“Fine by me. I’ll be right back.”

*She left and when she returned it was with a dragon onesie with tiny wings on the back. The fabric was incredibly soft.*

“We were all going to match but we got the wrong size for papa. Glen is obsessed with dragons. It looks like it’ll fit you though. You want me to turn around?”

[waylay-managment-2]

“No, there’s a bathroom.”

*they walked away.*

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*She nodded and waited patiently, turning the sink onto warm and glancing around for detergent.

Glen was settling down but papa also decided to stand right outside of the infirmary. He thought getting away from the chaos could do some good.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they came out in the pajamas, but still had their gloves on, and handed her their jacket.*

“Thank you.”

—

*Daisy sat down, not next to blip, but near enough.*

“Hey bud. Can I talk to you for a minute?”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“Of course!”

*She ran it under the sink to get as much blood as she could out of it now. She’d still bleach it once she was home but this made the job much easier.*

“You look adorable in that,” she grinned. “I could just put you in my pocket.”

—

*Blip tensed and nodded hesitantly. A no didn’t matter before so it likely wouldn’t now.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they smiled.*

“Thank you.”

—

*she waited for a second to get her words about her.*

“… I want you to know that I didn’t want to do that. And I want you to know that I will never do that again unless your life is one the line. Your life was on the line and I was scared you were going to suffocate. And that’s why I did that.

“And I know that’s not okay. And I’m sorry. But I promise that nothing I do will ever hurt you. It might be uncomfortable, but it will never hurt you. I promise. And I know it’s scary. But I’m going to try and make it less scary, okay?”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*While the sink ran, she went over and pinched both of their cheeks into her fingers. She moved their head back and forth playfully.*

“Awww, who’s a little cutie patootie? You are!” She was having a blast, maternal instincts going ham.

—

*The kid whined and curled into papa more who rocked it gently. Its expression was contorted and he sighed.*

“Is it a no-words time?”

*It nodded slowly. He frowned and mouthed to Daisy, ‘sorry. Don’t know why this happens’ with a shrug.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they stifled a laugh.*

—

*she nodded.*

“It’s okay. Sometimes words are hard for a lot of my friends. I get it.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

[waylay-managment-2]

“I am relaxed.”

*liar.*

—

“Y’know, when my friend gets like this, he likes to let his feelings out in tiny ways that don’t matter.”

*she went and grabbed a bit of paper and a pencil.*

“Like drawing, or even just stabbing the paper over and over again if he doesn’t like to draw that day. And you don’t have to use it, but I thought you might want to have a way to get your feelings out without words.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“C’mon, no, you aren’t. How about we get you to lay down for a bit, m’kay?”

*She tried to lead him out of the infirmary.*

—

*It took the paper and put it against its thigh to write. The kid drew a dragon and showed it to her. The wings were massive for its body but it was clear it’s drawn plenty of dragons in its time alive.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they shook their head and did not allow themselves to leave.*

“Absolutely not!”

*they turned to Mimi.*

“I understand and respect what you’re trying to do but I wear a suit for a reason. No one judges anyone else in a doctor’s office, but I will never hear the end of it if someone sees me in this in my office.”

—

*she smiled.*

“It’s very good.”

*then she squinted at it.*

“… is that from… what’s it called, one kid told me about it… Wings of Fire?”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

She sighed with a slight smile, understanding, “let’s get you to lay down in the infirmary then? At the very least you need to take your mind off of the chaos that’s been happening here. Relax.”

*She probably needed to as well.*

“I won’t publically humiliate you in front of all your friends,” she teased

—

*Its eyes lit up and it nodded ferociously. The kid pointed to the basket mimi brought that contained a book set that’s likely seen better days. It was taped together in some parts but it was Glen’s.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*they went and sat down on a cot, which was honestly a more familiar sensation than sitting down on their own bed.*

—

*she smiled.*

“Well, you’ll have to show me sometime.”

*she looked down at its shirt.*

“Hey. Do your lungs feel okay? Feel like you need to cough?”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*Mimi went over and tucked them in as snug as a bug in a rug.*

“Does a nap sound good? I could get you some tea or coffee?”

*Decaf, of course. No need to get something to worsen their anxiety.*

—

*It shook its head. Even if it did feel the need to cough it wouldn’t tell her. It wanted nothing to do with that evil machine.

Meanwhile, its shirt and vest were gross with goo. A ton was projectiled onto it, especially in the elbows of the flowy sleeves.

The kid went back to drawing.*

[waylay-managment-2]

“I’m okay. Why don’t go help Glen get changed into clean clothes?”

—

*she thought for a moment.*

“Look bud, I know it’s uncomfortable, but it’s only for a few seconds, and it’ll make everything feel so much better after. It’s like getting a shot. It hurts and it’s bad, but it protects you from worse things.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“We’re dividing and conquering. I take care of one kid while he takes care of the other. Glen would get too overwhelmed if we all just swarm around it.”

*She sat down on the edge of their bed.*

“My husband and Daisy are more than capable of taking care of it. You,” she booped their nose, “just relax.”

—

*Its nose wrinkled and it doodled a dragon giving a thumbs down at her before writing in messy handwriting.*

“I didn’t want it!”

[waylay-managment-2]

“I know. But you needed it. And if we didn’t give it to you anyway, you would’ve not been able to breathe again.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It pouted and shook its head before standing off of papa’s lap. Glen hated the doctors and it’s only ever been to an office twice now! It was gonna get chicken tenders and sit in the corner to doodle if it had any say in it.

Stupid, stupid, stupid.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*Daisy sighed.*

“Can I bribe you?”

—

“No, really, I’m okay.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*The kid raised an eyebrow, pausing at the door. Maybe, it could be.*

—

She sighed, “What do you have against chilling and relaxing?”

[waylay-managment-2]

“I’ll give you whatever you want if you agree to not fight me the next time you need this.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It was still emotionally charged and instead just stormed out. No! It didn’t want this at all! It was awful!

That strategy may work later.

Papa sighed and shook his head.*

“I’m sorry about it.”

[waylay-managment-2]

*Daisy just pointed out.*

“It’s fine. Just follow it and bring it back once it starts coughing.”

—

“That’s how people get hurt.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“Will do.”

*He left and followed it into the lobby where it plopped down, waiting to order. Some Kraft Mac and cheese would be amazing right now. Papa sat next to it and Glen pretended he wasn’t there at all.*

—

She tilted her head, “What do you mean?”

[waylay-managment-2]

*Casper walked over.*

“Hello, what can I get you?”

—

“I mean that I can stop people from getting hurt! I can make sure everyone is okay! But only if I’m awake.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

“Kraft Mac and Cheese and a new doctor,” got scribbled onto the piece of paper.

*He sighed and rubbed his temple, grumbling an apology.*

—

“Other people can do that too. Others are perfectly capable of making sure things don’t fall apart. You can’t take care of things if you’re the one falling apart.”

*She tucked a stray strand of hair behind their ear.*

[waylay-managment-2]

*Casper sighed.*

“Daisy had to do something you didn’t wanna do, huh?”

—

“Yes, I can. I’ve done it before.”

[one-blip-among-the-stars]

*It nodded and pointed to its neck, huffing in displeasure.*

“Mean.”

“Necessary.”

—

“Honey, you’re worrying me,” she sighed and rested a hand on their shoulder.

“Every single second you’ve had with me has been dedicated to helping another individual. I’m the same way. I go and I go to keep my life and my family’s together until I come home a wreck. It’s not healthy, I know that, but it’s what I thought I had to do. I always told my husband to relax and I’d handle all the housework on top of my grueling job.”

*Her expression soured just remembering it.*

“He always fought me, just like I’m doing to you right now, and I said the same thing. I thought I was fine and I could just keep going but I was just doing more harm than good. Sure, all the work was getting done but I was exhausting myself in the process and worrying every single person I love.”

*She readjusted how she sat, other hand messing with her hair.*

“I was fine until I wasn’t. I ended up passing out at my job and bashed my head open against the floor. When I woke up, I think I saw the most concerned expressions from every person I cared about. The guilt was so heavy. What I thought was helping just ended up hurting them and myself. They forced me to relax after that one and yeah, I deserved that.

In the process, I was passing this onto my children. They’re…practically husks. One of my biggest regrets as a parent is not fixing that tendency much earlier.”

*She couldn’t look at them. Her voice was cracking.*

“Kids are impressionable. They take in what they see and when they see you running yourself to bare bones, they’ll grow up to do the same. If you don’t choose to relax for yourself, do it for your kids. Dont make my mistake.”

[waylay-managment-2]

Tw for talk of suicide and sh

“I figured. She’s a nice lady, but sometimes she has to do things that aren’t nice to help people.”

—

“I don’t let them see it. I never do. And I’m doing it for them!”

*they sat up, looking down at their still gloved hands.*

“I have to monitor Cleo while he’s playing or he could hurt someone because his old dad never taught him better, I have to stay awake while Iris sleeps or he’ll be sucked into a nightmare again, Lili needs help with her powers, Jackson still flinches when he sees to much, and Natalie is going to commit suicide if I’m not there to stop her.”